Breakthrough in emergency services: Employees benefit from new regulations!

Breakthrough in emergency services: Employees benefit from new regulations!

In a groundbreaking agreement between the dbb and the management of the rescue service in the Oder-Spree district, which was reached on October 30, 2025, there is fundamental news for the rescue service employees. This agreement follows long and intensive negotiations to improve working conditions for staff. From January 1, 2027, weekly working hours will be gradually reduced to 46 hours. A year later, from January 1, 2028, there will be a further reduction to 44 hours per week. These steps not only make things easier for employees, but are also intended to ensure the quality of patient care.

A key component of the agreement is that from January 1, 2026, changing room times will no longer be factored. This means that the time employees need to change clothes is no longer deducted from their working hours. This is particularly beneficial for employees in the active rescue service and shows that the health and well-being of employees is also a priority when conducting negotiations. The annual special payment will be increased retroactively to 90 percent from 2025, which not only represents financial relief, but also a sign of appreciation for the work done.

New regulations and surcharges

In addition, the introduction of honeycomb allowances for operations outside of the main station will be implemented from March 1, 2026. These allowances are an important step towards better covering the diverse requirements of the emergency services. In addition, a flat rate of 12 euros per use will be introduced, starting from the 6th use per month. The term of the agreement is until July 31, 2027, and it is valid as long as there is no objection by November 16, 2025. This makes it clear that the negotiations take into account both the current concerns of the employees and the financial circumstances of the organization.

There are also discussions in the industry about the future of working hours. Employers are demanding the possibility of 24-hour shifts, but the ver.di negotiating commission has made it clear that no one can be forced to work such long shifts. Negotiations are ongoing and the safety of patients and the health of employees remain the top priority. A positive example is the agreement with the DRK, the largest emergency service provider in Germany, where weekly working hours are to be reduced from 45 to 44 hours from January 2024 and in further steps to 42 hours. Such regulations should also apply to municipal emergency services and take the demands of employees into account.

A look outside the box

Speaking of improvements: If you would like to take advantage of some offers and discounts in everyday life or in the DIY sector, you can take a look at Sobrico, for example. The online retailer specializes in everything related to building, renovation and gardening. There is currently up to 70% off in the outlet as well as a number of promotions ranging from free batteries to important discounts on certain orders. A visit to the website is definitely worthwhile if you are looking for high-quality tools and materials. Customers can also look forward to first-class customer service, available Monday to Friday.

All of these developments show that the industry is not just about shortened working hours, but also about greater appreciation and security for the people working. Just like on the construction site, the focus here is on health and how important it is that everyone involved has the right framework conditions.

For more information about the latest developments and offers in the area of ​​rescue services, it is best to take a look at the relevant pages: dbb, ver.di and Sobrico.