Association leader considers a nationwide siesta in Germany to be unrealistic

In view of more frequent heat waves, public health officers in Germany encourage a siesta like in southern European countries. The Vice President of the Association of German company and company doctors, Annette Wahl-Wachendorf, sees this critically.

tagesschau.de: Siesta in the summer months based on the southern European model – as a company doctor, what do you think of that?

Annette Wahl-Wachendorf: I myself worked in shifts for two years – with a three-hour break before continuing. That didn’t do me any good. Apart from my personal experience, I generally don’t think much of generalizations, because generalizations are never effective.

In addition, in Germany there is the instrument of risk assessment, from which occupational safety measures are derived. In addition, the stop principle applies as a fixed sequence of protective measures – such as technical protective measures, organizational and personal. A siesta is not useful or realistic across the board and in the interests of those affected.

“Further sharpening of understanding of health”

tagesschau.de: What measures do you see as an alternative to the siesta?

Wahl-Wachendorf: We generally recommend shading measures and cooling. We can see that such measures are now being implemented much better. There is a wealth of measures that also take effect when it is very hot. We advise shifting your working hours into the early morning. Shading is important in many workplaces, for example in agriculture. Processes and tasks should be relocated as far as possible.

The government is working on nationwide heat protection plans. France is a pioneer here. Nevertheless, we must further increase the understanding among employers and employees to take care of health. With the shortage of skilled workers, employees have a lot of power here, and employers are increasingly aware of this.

tagesschau.de: The heat has different effects in a wide variety of industries and requires different measures. Where are heat protection measures particularly important?

Wahl-Wachendorf: In the construction industry, in agriculture and in logistics, including postal and parcel service providers, there are protective measures such as head and neck protection. The BG Bau is a role model here with a wide range. In addition, there are individual consultations in all sectors. However, we must not forget that many people work in special employment relationships. They too need advice and support.

tagesschau.de: Is there sufficient protection for temporary workers, i.e. people in special employment relationships?

Wahl-Wachendorf: Yes, the borrowers have the same obligation as all employers.

“Still room for improvement”

tagesschau.de: If companies now want to take up the Siesta proposal and implement it: How could this succeed in practice?

Wahl-Wachendorf: We recommend involving the works councils and weighing organizational measures against the requirements of the company and the needs of the employees in a coordination process. For smaller companies, individual advice can be particularly helpful.

For some employees, for example, it is important to be able to come home early to look after the children; a siesta break is not desirable here. That also needs to be taken into account. It’s about organizing work processes without neglecting productivity and taking personal needs into account.

tagesschau.de: Where would be a reasonable limit for temperatures or months in which a siesta could be implemented?

Wahl-Wachendorf: I think a nationwide limit is difficult because it is not realistic in many workplaces. It is much more important that people in particularly affected workplaces are protected and that people with previous illnesses are advised by us company doctors and their workplaces adjusted if necessary. Organizationally, there is often still room for improvement, so you have to reflect critically.

The interview was conducted by Antje Erhard, ARD finance editor, for tagesschau.de