In the service sector, work‑related stress, continuing to work while ill, and non‑standard working hours are common.
The findings come from an analysis of the DGB Index “Good Work” carried out by the Verdi union. Nearly three‑quarters of employees also work on weekends, evenings or in shifts. More than half of the workforce reports being affected by job intimidation and time pressure, and only one in three employees never shows up to work when they are sick.
The main reasons for part‑time employment, according to the study, are high work load and caring responsibilities for children or relatives who need care. Women in the service sector are also more likely than men to work part‑time.
Most employees in retail, health and social care often feel too exhausted after work to attend to personal matters.
Flexibility in work‑time design positively impacts employees’ ability to work and to balance work with family life, but such flexibility is not available to all. Verdi calls for an expansion of these flexibilities and for them to be secured through collective agreements.
