Works Council Training – Part 1

In this seminar, you will receive a substantial introduction to the Works Constitution Act (BetrVG). We familiarize you with the essential rights and duties as well as the basic organizational principles. You will get a substantial first overview of your participation rights and especially important knowledge about co-determination in personnel matters. Those skills enable you to master the tasks ahead with legal certainty and use your rights in a correct and professional manner!

Legal basics of works council work

• Laws, collective agreements, works agreements, employment contracts
• Principle of precedence and favorability
• Sources of information: Where does the works council get the necessary information (in time)?

Rights and duties of works council members

• Your works council activities as an honorary position: entitlement to time off and loss of pay principle
• Prohibition of discrimination and special protection against dismissal – your protection against unlawful sanctions
• Don't forget: Secrecy and confidentiality obligations
• Training in accordance with § 37 (6) and (7) BetrVG: Your legal entitlement

The organization of the works council

• Tasks and powers of the works council chairman
• Formation of committees and working groups
• Works council office & Co.: Tips for effective organization
• The position of trade unions and employers' associations

Cooperation within and with the works council

• Works council meetings and resolutions – digital and face-to-face
• The monthly meeting with the employer / HR
• Consultation hours and dealing with employee complaints
• What you are entitled to: Costs and material expenses of the works council
• Valuable help: Advice from experts and lawyers

Co-determination – your participation rights (Overview)

• Reliable co-operation: Obligation for workers council and employer
• Range of rights: From information to "real" co-determination
• The subject areas of participation rights: Labour relations, social affairs and business affairs

Participation rights in labour relations / personnel matters

• Hiring, transfer, grouping, regrouping – what you need to know!
• Dismissal: Hearing by the employer, concerns and objections by the works council
• Personnel planning and securing employment – using your right to make suggestions
• Personnel questionnaires and assessment principles - real co-determination within the application process