Tesla's management in Germany is facing backlash for sending managers to the homes of employees on sick leave in a controversial attempt to address rising absenteeism rates at its Berlin Gigafactory. This move, intended to curb high sick leave numbers, has sparked outrage among workers and unions, who argue it infringes on employees' rights and exacerbates an already tense situation at the electric vehicle factory.


According to reports, Tesla managers visited the homes of about 30 employees who had called in sick. Several workers reacted angrily, slamming their doors and even threatening to contact the police in response to the unexpected visits. The company's actions have ignited debate over the management's handling of worker absences.


Tesla Defends Home Visits


André Thierig, a senior director at Tesla's Grünheide plant, defended the decision, stating that such visits were "not unusual" and were aimed at reinforcing the work ethic of Tesla employees. Thierig argued that the rising absenteeism was not a result of poor working conditions but rather due to employees taking advantage of Germany's generous sick leave policies, which allow full pay for up to six weeks.


The Berlin Gigafactory has reported a sick leave rate of 17 per cent among its 12,000 employees, with higher absences on Fridays and during late shifts. This figure is significantly higher than the 5 per cent average in the German automotive industry. In response, Tesla introduced a €1,000 attendance bonus for workers who complete more than 95 per cent of their scheduled shifts. Company executives have expressed frustration over the high number of sick calls, labeling the behavior of some employees as "dishonourable" and an "exploitation" of the system.


Elon Musk Acknowledges Sick Leave Issue


Tesla CEO Elon Musk has also weighed in on the matter, noting on X that he would be "looking into" the high rates of absenteeism at the Berlin plant. Musk, who is known for promoting a demanding work culture, has previously encouraged Tesla employees to meet tight production deadlines, even reportedly spending nights at the production line himself.


Unions Criticise Tesla's Approach


Unions have strongly criticised Tesla's actions, with IG Metall, one of Germany's largest automotive unions, blaming the high absenteeism on overwork and unsafe working conditions. Dirk Schulze, IG Metall's regional director, argued that workers at the Gigafactory are overwhelmed by excessive workloads, particularly during staff shortages, which force employees to take on additional tasks. "When there are staff shortages, sick workers are pressured, and those who remain healthy are overburdened," Schulze said.


History of Controversial Sick Leave Policies


This is not the first time Tesla's sick leave policies have faced scrutiny. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Tesla's US employees reported being fired after calling in sick, despite the company’s public commitment to allowing workers time off if they felt unsafe. Similarly, workers at Tesla's Nevada plant claimed they were threatened with termination for taking sick days the company classified as "unplanned."


The rising absenteeism at the Berlin plant adds to the challenges facing Tesla since the factory’s opening in 2022. Initially expected to produce one million cars per year, the plant has struggled to meet production targets due to supply chain disruptions, production pauses, and declining demand. In addition to absenteeism, there have been reports of work-related injuries, including burns and amputations, raising concerns about the safety conditions at the facility.


Despite mounting criticism from unions and workers, Tesla continues to defend its approach, asserting that visiting employees on sick leave is a standard practice aimed at maintaining accountability. However, unions argue that these visits only heighten stress for employees and worsen the already challenging conditions at the plant.


As Tesla navigates these controversies, the company's management and workforce remain locked in a tense standoff over the future of its labour practices in Germany.