Almost all jobs today involve digital technology, whether emails, Internet access, or smartphone use. Most employees, when interviewed say that digital technology increases their productivity and flexibility. The downside is what some call an “electronic leash” – employees are constantly connected and therefore end up working when they are not “at work.” Over one-third of full-time workers frequently check emails outside of regular working hours.
Because the boundaries between being “at work” and being “at leisure” can be so hazy, some labor unions in other countries have attempted to pass rules that allow employees to disconnect from email and other work-related digital communication during non-working hours. For example, a French labor union representing high-tech workers signed an agreement with a large business association recognizing a “right of disconnecting.”
In Germany, Volkswagen, and BMW no longer forward emails to staff company servers after the end of the working day. Other German firms have declared that on weekends and holidays work related items are intentionally not processed. The German government is considering legislating such restrictions nationwide.
Discussion Prompt
Ethically, should employees have a “right to disconnect?” State your opinion. What are the benefits and drawbacks of disconnecting from work during non-work hours?
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