Bereitschaftsdiensten

Bereitschaftsdiensten, often translated as on-call duty or standby service, refers to a specific type of work arrangement where an employee is available to be called into work at short notice during their off-duty hours. This arrangement is common in professions where services need to be continuously provided, such as healthcare, emergency services, and IT support.

The core principle of Bereitschaftsdiensten is that the employee is not actively working but is obligated to respond and commence work if the need arises. This requires them to remain in a location where they can quickly reach their workplace or to be otherwise reachable and capable of performing their duties. The specific terms of Bereitschaftsdiensten, including compensation for the standby period, response times, and the duration of on-call shifts, are typically defined by labor agreements, collective bargaining contracts, or company policies.

Employees undertaking Bereitschaftsdiensten may receive a special allowance for being on call, in addition to their regular wages for any actual work performed during those periods. The legal framework surrounding Bereitschaftsdiensten varies by country, but generally aims to balance the employer's need for continuous service with the employee's right to rest and personal time. Regulations often address the maximum duration of on-call periods and the minimum rest periods required between shifts to prevent burnout and ensure employee well-being.