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Customs uncovers scandal: illegal work and minimum wage violations in Hohenlohe!
In the Hohenlohe district, customs recently checked 39 workers for compliance with minimum wage and social security regulations.
Customs uncovers scandal: illegal work and minimum wage violations in Hohenlohe!
On May 21st, the Financial Control of Undeclared Work, a team from the main customs office in Heilbronn, carried out an extensive inspection in the Hohenlohe district. A total of 15 companies that specialized in earth excavation, formwork, concrete and iron weaving work were checked by 14 emergency services. The aim of the review was to ensure that employees are properly registered for social security and that the provisions of the Minimum Wage Act are being adhered to. In this context, 39 workers were interviewed and several irregularities were identified indicating serious violations, including one worker without a valid work and residence permit and evidence of benefit fraud in three cases. Signs of violations of minimum wage regulations, immediate reporting requirements and illegal temporary employment were also identified. The status of the investigation is ongoing, with authorities continuing to investigate intensively.
The control clarifies the basic regulations set out by the Minimum Wage Act. Employers are obliged to pay the legal minimum wage, regardless of whether they are based in Germany or abroad. Industry-related minimum wages can also be set in collective agreements by the Posting of Workers Act and the Temporary Employment Act. The latter regulations have priority in certain sectors, while the statutory minimum wage must not be fallen below.
Monitoring and sanctions
The Financial Control for Undeclared Work (FKS) carries out not only event-related but also suspicion-independent audits to ensure compliance with the minimum wage regulations. These audits may also concern earlier periods. During such checks, employees are asked about their activities, the extent of their employment and the level of their remuneration. In addition, the FKS examines employers' business records, including pay slips, financial records and working time records.
Violations of the minimum wage can result in high fines for employers, which can be up to 500,000 euros. Violations of the recording obligations can result in fines of up to 30,000 euros. In addition, companies can be excluded from awarding public contracts if they violate minimum wage regulations. The customs administration is responsible for punishing such violations, while employees must enforce their claims under civil law.
The main customs offices are available as a contact point for citizens, employees and employers who have information about possible violations. Further information is also available on the customs websites, where tax, social security and labor regulations are explained in more detail. The Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs also offers a minimum wage hotline, which can be reached on 030 60280028. For inquiries via email, the address mindestlohn@buergerservice.bund.de is available.
Given current inspections and reporting of violations at construction sites, it is crucial that both employees and employers comply with applicable regulations to avoid legal consequences and ensure fair working conditions.