German psychology associations oppose labor law relaxation
The German associations BDP, DGPs, and PASiG criticize proposed changes to the Working Time Act. They warn these measures could harm employee health and reduce productivity.
Berlin – The Arbeits- & Organisationspsychologie in Gesundheits- und Arbeitssicherheit (AOP-GA) initiative, representing the German Association of Professional Psychologists (BDP), the German Psychological Society (DGPs), and the Professional Association for Psychology in Occupational Safety and Health (PASiG), has voiced strong opposition to proposed amendments to Germany's Working Time Act (ArbZG).
The associations argue that current proposals, which include extending daily working hours and shifting focus from an eight-hour daily limit to a weekly one, are not supported by scientific evidence. They contend that such changes could negatively impact employee health, diminish productivity, and exacerbate existing labor shortages.
According to the psychology groups, the existing Working Time Act already allows for significant flexibility while establishing crucial protective standards. These standards, such as the minimum 11-hour rest period between shifts, are rooted in decades of research aimed at preserving long-term work capacity and well-being.
"Relaxing the law is contrary to empirical research and risks worsening the very problems it claims to solve," the associations stated. They point to research indicating that extended workdays and night shifts can disrupt circadian rhythms and sleep, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, depression, and type 2 diabetes, alongside decreased productivity.
The BDP, DGPs, and PASiG urge policymakers to consider the scientific consensus, emphasizing that any adjustments to working time regulations must not compromise the health and sustained performance of the workforce.