Court Upholds Unpaid Work Hours Increase

A German machinist challenged his employer's decision to extend working hours from 37 to 40 per week without additional pay. However, the Regional Labor Court of Mainz dismissed the lawsuit, citing a valid company agreement made under economic constraints.

This agreement, considered standard business terms, was accepted by employees during company meetings. The court emphasized that the objective content and typical meaning of the agreement were decisive, determining that the workers had consented to the increase without pay adjustments.

Over 57 months, the machinist sought wage compensation, but the court ruled that the absence of a wage increase was evident and agreed upon by the workforce. The Labor Law Working Group of the German Bar Association highlighted this case, reflecting on the legal interpretation of standard agreements in the context of economic challenges.

The decision underscores the importance of clear communication and mutual understanding in employment contracts.