FFP2 masks are now mandatory in many places, including at work.
But employees don't necessarily have to pay for the expensive masks out of their own pockets.
The advantages of the FFP2 masks are undisputed: They not only protect others from infection with the corona virus *, but also the wearer himself. Unfortunately, high-quality FFP2 masks are much more expensive than the so-called "everyday masks".
However, those who have to carry them to work can hope for financial relief: employers have to cover the costs in certain cases.
Can the employer require its employees to wear FFP2 masks?
In order
to protect employees and customers
, employers may order a mask requirement in the company during the corona pandemic.
At least in those areas where personal contact cannot be ruled out.
“The employer
can also stipulate the wearing of FFP2 masks
, even if this goes beyond the statutory provisions,” explains labor rights expert Roman Eschke in an interview with
Wirtschaftswoche.
The
Employers can therefore decide on a higher standard of protection.
Also read:
Corona vaccination: what happens to nurses who do not get vaccinated?
Mask requirement: does the employer have to pay for the FFP2 masks?
In fact, the employer must
bear
the
costs for the
FFP2 masks if he orders them
or
if there is
a mask requirement due to a legal regulation.
"After all, this is an occupational health and safety measure, the costs of which the employer has to bear," confirms the lawyer.
The Verdi union also sees employers as responsible for the FFP2 mask requirement: "In any case, companies must provide their employees with FFP2 masks
free of charge and in sufficient numbers,
" said Verdi boss Frank Werneke, according to a report by the German press Agency (dpa).
Employees must also be able to take additional short breaks in order to take off the mask and be able to breathe properly.
(as) * Merkur.de is part of the nationwide Ippen central editorial network.
More on the topic:
15-kilometer radius in lockdown: Can I still drive to work?
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