Amazon dispute: Worker challenges dismissal over medical leave
At the Amazon logistics centre in Winsen, Germany, a controversial dismissal has occurred. An employee who accumulated as many as 243 absence days due to illness over three years was dismissed at the end of April. The 36-year-old is currently contesting this decision at the labour court in Lüneburg.
According to the newspaper Landeszeitung Winsener, the employee had 60 days of absence in 2022, 55 days in 2023, and as many as 128 days in the previous year. So far this year, 30 days have already been counted.
The employer, growing impatient with the situation, decided to terminate the contract. Interestingly, in most instances, Amazon was required to cover the salary costs because the employee did not exceed the six weeks after which the insurer assumes payment responsibility.
Dispute over working conditions
The employee claims that the primary reason for his absence was a foot injury, resulting from the need to cover significant distances at work. His lawyer argues that the injury never fully healed because the employee was frequently moved between various positions.
Amazon disputes these claims, stating that robots transport goods to employees at the Winsen logistics centre, thereby reducing the need for walking.
According to Landeszeitung Winsener, Judge Finn Altmüller noted that the requirements for older employees who have been with the company for a substantial period differ from those for new employees. Dismissal may be justified if there is a high likelihood of continued absences.
Settlement attempt
During mediation, Amazon offered €10,000 as compensation for the employee's departure, who earns about €3,000 per month. However, the employee demands €28,000, which amounts to three months' salary for each year of service.
The judge pointed out this demand is significantly higher than the standard half salary per year. Ultimately, the parties could not reach an agreement and are scheduled to reconvene for a court hearing in August.
