Zum Tag der Linkshänder: Hürden im Job: Was dürfen Linkshänder vom Chef verlangen?

On the day dedicated to left-handed individuals, challenges at work arise, particularly for those who favor their left hand. Working environments are often designed with right-handers in mind, making the daily tasks more difficult for left-handed employees. Can employers take action in such situations? Absolutely, according to Alexander Bredereck, a labor law specialist.

The Work Environment Act and Workplace Ordinance state that employers must provide suitable working tools for their employees to perform their tasks. This includes specific tools for left-handed individuals, such as left-handed computer mice, scissors, or other equipment. This may seem feasible, but what about heavy machinery? In some cases, new machines may need to be acquired, even if they are expensive. These machines should be adapted to suit left-handed users, as per Bredereck.

Employers are required to proactively assess potential hazards and address them accordingly to protect left-handed employees. However, can employers demand that left-handed employees use right-handed devices? The answer is generally no, unless using such devices poses a health risk to the employee. The fact that specific devices for left-handed individuals have been developed is a strong indication of the employee's right to have these devices provided by their employer.

When applying for a job, it is acceptable to omit the fact that one is left-handed or to lie about it, as employers typically cannot ask about this information during the recruitment process.