Friday, 21 March
Thousands of Tesla Gigafactory workers demand immediate relief
Discontent is growing at Tesla’s Grünheide factory, where more than 3,000 employees have signed a petition demanding immediate relief from what they describe as excessive workloads. Organised by the IG Metall union, the petition calls for longer breaks, an end to “understaffing”, and what the union terms “harassment” at the workplace. The signatures are set to be presented to management this week.
“Despite pressure from above, Tesla workers are standing their ground. Management must act,” said IG Metall district leader Dirk Schulze, emphasising the strength of employee support. The union has previously accused Tesla of intimidating workers, reports rbb, particularly regarding sick leave policies- an allegation Tesla dismissed as overblown.
While an IG Metall survey from last autumn reported that 83 percent of workers often feel overworked, Tesla countered with its own internal poll, claiming that 80 percent of employees are satisfied with their jobs. The company also points to worker benefits such as company-run shuttle buses and an on-site gym, as well as its decision to offer 300 temporary workers permanent contracts starting in April.
