Tesla’s Gigafactory in Berlin is under scrutiny due to high worker absence rates, prompting unconventional measures from management. The situation has caught the attention of CEO Elon Musk and sparked debate between the company and labor representatives.
Management’s Response
André Thierig, Manufacturing Director at Giga Berlin, has defended the company’s approach to addressing absenteeism:
- Tesla managers have begun visiting employees’ homes during sick leave, a practice Thierig claims is “common in the industry.”
- The company aims to “appeal to the employees’ work ethic.”
- Approximately 200 staff members have allegedly not reported to work all year while still receiving pay.
- The average absence rate due to illness is reported to be 2%.
Thierig noted suspicious patterns in sick leave:
“On Fridays and late shifts, about 5% more employees take sick leave than on other weekdays. This suggests that the German social system is being exploited to some extent.”
Union’s Perspective
IG Metall, the trade union representing many Giga Berlin workers, contests Tesla’s claims:
- The union reports sick leave rates of 15% or higher at the factory.
- IG Metall attributes high absence rates to a “culture of fear” at Tesla.
Dirk Schulze, a regional director for IG Metall, stated:
“Employees from almost all areas of the factory have reported an extremely high workload. When there are staff shortages, the ill workers are put under pressure, and those who remain healthy are overburdened with additional work.”
The union advocates for Tesla to address what it sees as a “vicious circle” of overwork and illness.
Elon Musk’s Involvement
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has been made aware of the situation and has stated he will investigate the matter further. His response to the controversy is anticipated by observers.
The clash between Tesla’s management practices and German labor norms highlights the challenges multinational companies face when adapting to local work cultures and regulations.
