töötingimusel

Töötingimusel refers to a legal concept in Estonian labor law that allows for the suspension of an employment contract for a specified period. This means that the employee is temporarily released from their work duties, and the employer is temporarily relieved of their obligation to pay wages. The core idea behind töötingimusel is to provide flexibility for both parties in certain situations.

This arrangement can be initiated by mutual agreement between the employer and the employee, or in specific circumstances stipulated by law, such as during a period of economic downturn or a restructuring of the company. The duration of the töötingimusel period must be clearly defined, and it cannot be indefinite. During this time, the employment relationship remains technically intact, but the active performance of work and payment of salary are suspended.

Upon the expiry of the töötingimusel period, the employment contract automatically resumes its normal operation, and the employee is expected to return to work, with the employer reinstating salary payments. While specific regulations govern its application, the primary purpose of töötingimusel is to navigate challenging economic or operational circumstances without resorting to immediate termination of employment. It serves as a tool to preserve employment relationships during temporary difficulties.