Corporate Travel
Wellness-Trips
company outing obligation
Company outing: Leisure or obligation? Your rights and duties!
Is the company outing really voluntary? What happens if you are sick? And who actually pays? Many questions with clear answers. Discover how you as an employee or employer can optimally organize the company outing and which legal aspects you should consider. For further information, we are happy to assist you here.
The topic, briefly and concisely
Participation in company outings is voluntary, but if you choose not to participate during working hours, there is a requirement to work or take holiday. Clear communication is essential.
Company outings during working hours are considered paid working hours, but usually without overtime pay. The correct definition of the "official end" is important for liability and insurance coverage.
Take advantage of the tax-free allowance of 110 euros per employee per year to reduce costs. An inclusive design and attention to data protection contribute to a positive and unforgettable experience, which can increase employee retention by up to 10%.
Find out whether participation in the company outing is mandatory, how working hours are regulated, and which tax advantages you can benefit from. Get informed now!
What makes a successful company outing?
A company outing is more than just a nice day out of the office. It is a strategic investment in your team. The main purpose of such an outing is to promote team spirit and improve the working atmosphere. Such events help to increase employee motivation and create a positive working environment. A well-planned company outing can strengthen team collaboration and enhance communication. Additionally, it offers a welcome change from the work routine and allows employees to get to know each other better in a relaxed setting. Organizing a company outing can also be perceived as a sign of appreciation from the employer, which in turn enhances employee retention. Use the company outing to celebrate successes together and strengthen the company culture. This makes the outing an unforgettable experience that has a lasting positive impact.
A successful company outing is characterized by careful planning and consideration of the employees' needs. It is important to create a diverse program that includes both entertaining and team-building elements. Make sure the activities are accessible and appealing to all employees, regardless of age or physical condition. Open communication in advance helps meet employee expectations and ensures the outing is a complete success. Remember, a successful company outing not only provides fun but also makes a lasting contribution to improving the working climate.
Legal aspects: What you need to consider in the planning
The legal framework for a company outing is varied and should be considered during planning. In principle, participation is voluntary, unless there are contractual agreements requiring participation. The issue of working hours and remuneration also plays an important role, especially if the outing takes place during regular working hours. Tax considerations are also important, as the employer can take advantage of tax benefits under certain conditions. It is important to be informed about the applicable regulations in advance to avoid legal pitfalls. For more information on rights and duties, see our article Company Outing: Rights and Duties. Transparent communication of the legal framework creates clarity and avoids misunderstandings.
In addition to the above aspects, liability and insurance coverage are also important. The employer is responsible for ensuring the safe conduct of the company outing. This includes information on rules of conduct and providing a safe environment. During the official part of the company outing, there is usually legal accident insurance. It is advisable to contact the relevant authorities in advance to clarify any relevant questions and ensure that the company outing proceeds smoothly and legally safely.
Voluntary Participation: Respect the Autonomy of Your Employees
No Obligation to Attend: What Does This Mean for You?
Essentially, there is no legal obligation for employees to participate in a company outing. This means that employers cannot force their employees to attend. An exception exists only if there are contractual agreements that require participation, which is rare. The voluntary nature of participation is an important aspect that respects employee autonomy and ensures that no one has to attend such an event against their will. It is advisable to clearly communicate this voluntariness to avoid misunderstandings. Information on tax aspects can be found under Betriebsausflug Freibetrag. Emphasising voluntariness strengthens employee trust in the employer and fosters a positive corporate culture. Transparent communication is key to success here.
Voluntary participation should also be considered when planning the company outing. It is advisable to involve employees in the planning process and take their wishes and suggestions into account. This will help ensure that the outing is attractive to as many employees as possible and increases willingness to participate. Offer alternative activities to cater to the diverse interests of employees. A flexible programme design can help ensure that all employees feel comfortable and are happy to attend the company outing.
Consequences of Non-Participation: How to Manage Working Hours Correctly
If a company outing takes place during regular working hours and an employee does not wish to participate, there is an obligation to work. This means that the employee must either carry out their regular duties or, in consultation with the employer, take leave. It is not permissible to simply stay away from work without choosing one of these options. Clearly regulating these consequences helps maintain company operations and ensures that working time is used efficiently. The firmenabc.com offers further insights into legal aspects. Open communication about the consequences of non-participation is important to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts. Clarify in advance which tasks need to be completed during the company outing and how working hours will be recorded.
It is important to find a fair and transparent arrangement that considers the interests of both the employer and the employees. Offer employees who do not participate in the company outing the opportunity to organise their working hours flexibly or work on other projects. This ensures that working time is used meaningfully and that employees remain motivated. Appreciative communication and flexible work arrangements ensure that all employees feel fairly treated.
Events Outside Working Hours: Voluntariness as a Top Priority
If the company outing takes place outside regular working hours, such as on a weekend or public holiday, participation is always voluntary. In this case, there is no entitlement to time off in lieu, unless otherwise agreed. Voluntariness at such events is particularly important as employees should be able to organise their free time independently. However, it is common for employers to encourage attendance at such outings with special incentives to increase motivation. Further information on employees' rights can be found under poko.de. The ability to arrange one's leisure time should be respected as a valuable asset. Transparent communication about voluntariness and possible incentives is therefore essential.
To encourage participation in company outings outside of working hours, various incentives can be created. For instance, offer appealing activities that match employees' interests, or hold a raffle with great prizes. Financial contribution to the cost of the outing can also increase willingness to participate. It is important that incentives are designed transparently and fairly, and that employees are not pressured to attend the outing. Appreciative communication and an attractive programme design contribute to employees being willing to participate.
Working Time Regulation: Ensuring Fair Compensation for the Corporate Outing
Company Trip During Working Hours: Correct Payment Procedures
If a company trip takes place during regular working hours, this time is considered working time with normal pay. This means that employees receive their regular salary for the time spent on the trip. However, there is generally no entitlement to overtime pay, even if the trip lasts longer than the usual working hours. This regulation is intended to ensure that employees are adequately compensated for their participation without incurring additional costs for the employer. Personio provides further information on this topic. Transparent communication about working time regulations and payment is important to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts. Clarify in advance how working hours will be recorded and what regulations apply to overtime.
It is advisable to document the working time regulations in writing in advance and make them accessible to all employees. This ensures that all employees are informed about the applicable provisions and there are no ambiguities. Transparent and fair working time regulations help to strengthen employees' trust in the employer and promote a positive working environment. Provide employees with the opportunity to ask questions about the working time regulations and resolve any uncertainties.
Company Trip Outside of Working Hours: Time Off in Lieu as an Option
If the company trip takes place outside regular working hours, participation is generally considered leisure time. There is an exception, however, if an agreement for time off in lieu is made. In this case, employees can receive time off in lieu for the time spent on the trip. This arrangement is particularly attractive to employees willing to sacrifice their leisure time for the company trip and offers fair compensation for their effort. It is important to communicate such agreements clearly in advance and document them in writing. Transparent communication about the possibilities of time off in lieu is crucial to increase employee motivation and encourage participation.
To make time off in lieu attractive, you can offer employees various options. For example, offer the possibility to take the time off in lieu on a day of their choice or to receive additional vacation days. A combination of time off in lieu and financial compensation is also conceivable. It is important that the arrangement is fair and transparent and takes into account the interests of the employees. A flexible design of the time off in lieu can contribute to employees feeling appreciated and happy to participate in the company trip.
Timekeeping: Clear Regulations for Smooth Operations
To avoid misunderstandings, it is important to set clear regulations for timekeeping. This includes the documentation of participation in the company trip as well as transparent communication of working time regulations. Accurately recording working hours helps ensure compliance with legal requirements and avoid disputes. Employers should ensure that all employees are informed about and understand the applicable regulations. You can find information about costs under book company trip costs. Transparent and understandable timekeeping forms the basis for fair remuneration and a good working atmosphere.
There are various ways to record working hours. For example, you can use a time clock or ask employees to manually document their working hours. Using electronic time tracking is also conceivable. It is important that the chosen method is easy to use and accessible to all employees. Clear and understandable instructions for timekeeping help avoid errors and ensure correct recording of working hours. Regular checks of timekeeping can help identify and address irregularities early.
Liability and Insurance: Define the official end of the company outing
Official End Defined: Clear Boundaries for Liability and Insurance
The definition of the "official end" of a company outing is crucial due to its impact on liability and insurance coverage. The official end can either be defined by a time frame or a specific event, such as the end of dinner or the official farewell by the employer. It is important for the employer to clearly communicate the official end to avoid misunderstandings. This clear distinction helps to precisely define responsibilities and insurance coverage. Transparent communication about the official end of the company outing is important to prevent misunderstandings and liability risks.
It is advisable to record the official end of the company outing in writing in advance and make it accessible to all employees. This ensures that all employees are informed about the applicable regulations and there is no ambiguity. A clear and comprehensible definition of the official end helps to strengthen employees' trust in the employer and promote a positive working atmosphere. Provide employees with the opportunity to ask questions about the official end of the company outing and to clear up any uncertainties.
Liability and Insurance: What Applies During and After the Excursion?
During the official part of the company outing, there is usually statutory accident insurance. This covers accidents that occur during the official programme and travel to and from the event. However, insurance coverage ceases after the official end, especially if accidents are due to individual negligence, such as intoxication. Therefore, it is advisable to behave responsibly after the official end to avoid jeopardising insurance coverage. More information on insurance can be found at Betriebsausflug BG versichert. Transparent communication about insurance coverage and liability risks is important to raise employees' awareness of responsible behaviour.
It is advisable to inform employees in advance about the risks and dangers during the company outing. Inform them about the applicable safety regulations and provide tips for safe conduct. Providing emergency numbers and contacts can also help employees feel secure. Open and honest communication about the risks and dangers can help prevent accidents and ensure employees' safety.
Employer Responsibility: Ensuring Safety and Information
The employer is responsible for ensuring a safe execution of the company outing. This includes informing about codes of conduct and providing a safe environment. The employer should ensure that all employees are informed of the risks and behave accordingly. Clear communication and compliance with safety standards help prevent accidents and protect employees' health. Information on the tax aspects can be found at Personio. Comprehensive planning and organisation of the company outing is the foundation for a safe and successful event.
It is advisable to conduct a risk assessment in advance and take the necessary safety measures. Check the venues for potential hazards and ensure that employees are informed about the applicable safety regulations. Providing first aid materials and training first responders can also help ensure employee safety. Careful planning and organisation of the company outing is the best foundation for a safe and unforgettable day.
Equal treatment: Ensure the fair participation of all employees
Participation for Everyone: Equality as a Principle
Basically, all employees have the right to participate in the company outing, including those who are in their notice period or probationary period. An exception only applies if operational necessities require certain employees, such as those on emergency duty, to be present. This principle of equal treatment aims to ensure that all employees have the opportunity to participate in the company outing and benefit from the advantages. firmenabc.com offers further insights into the legal aspects. Transparent communication about the principle of equality is important to ensure that all employees feel fairly treated.
It's advisable to inform employees in advance about the participation conditions and give them the opportunity to register for the company outing. Make sure all employees receive the same information and have the same opportunities to participate in the outing. Open and honest communication about participation conditions can help avoid misunderstandings and conflicts.
Set Exceptions Transparently: Ensure Fairness in Emergency Services
The definition of exceptions is the responsibility of the employer. It is common for employees to voluntarily sign up for emergency services. However, the employer should set transparent criteria for selection to ensure that the selection is fair and equitable. A transparent approach helps to gain employees' trust and ensure that the selection is not arbitrary. Information on costs can be found at book company outing costs. A transparent and comprehensible definition of exceptions is the foundation for fair treatment of all employees.
It's advisable to document the criteria for selecting employees for emergency service in writing beforehand and make it accessible to all employees. This ensures that all employees are informed about the applicable regulations, leaving no room for misunderstandings. A clear and understandable definition of criteria helps to strengthen employees' trust in their employer and foster a positive working environment. Provide employees with the opportunity to ask questions about the criteria and clarify any ambiguities.
Avoid Discrimination: Inclusion for a Positive Experience
It is important that all employees are treated without discrimination, irrespective of age, gender, or origin. The employer should ensure that the company outing is inclusive and considers the needs of all employees. An inclusive design promotes a sense of belonging and ensures that all employees feel comfortable. Personio offers further information on this topic. An inclusive arrangement of the company outing is an important contribution to a positive corporate culture.
To ensure the company outing is inclusive, you should consider the needs of all employees. For example, offer barrier-free activities to enable participation for employees with physical disabilities. Ensure that catering meets the various dietary needs of employees by offering vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. Taking cultural differences into account also helps to make all employees feel comfortable. Open and appreciative communication is the foundation for an inclusive company outing design.
Professional Conduct: Avoid Missteps on the Company Outing
Professional Conduct: Respectful Interaction Despite a Relaxed Atmosphere
Even when a company outing exudes a relaxed atmosphere, it's crucial to maintain professional behaviour. This involves respectful interaction with colleagues and superiors and refraining from discrimination or harassment. Professional conduct helps to sustain a positive work environment and ensures all employees feel comfortable. It's advisable to adhere to the usual behavioural rules even outside the workplace. Clear communication regarding the expectations of employee behaviour is key to avoiding missteps.
It's recommended to inform employees in advance about the applicable behavioural rules and provide them with the opportunity to ask questions. Ensure that all employees receive the same information and have the same expectations regarding their behaviour. Open and honest communication about the behavioural rules can help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts.
Disciplinary Measures: Consequences of Misconduct
In cases of misconduct, disciplinary measures may be implemented, ranging from a warning to dismissal, particularly for serious misconduct. Therefore, it's important to clearly communicate behavioural rules and ensure all employees understand them. Clear communication and consistent enforcement of rules help to prevent misconduct and foster a positive work environment. Information on employee rights can be found at poko.de. Transparent communication about the possible consequences of misconduct is important to raise employee awareness for responsible behaviour.
It's advisable to document the potential consequences of misconduct in writing in advance and make them accessible to all employees. This ensures that all employees are informed about the applicable provisions, eliminating any ambiguities. A clear and understandable definition of the consequences helps strengthen employees’ trust in the employer and promote a positive working atmosphere. Offer employees the opportunity to ask questions about the consequences and clarify any uncertainties.
Data Protection and Confidentiality: Sensitive Handling of Information
Data protection and confidentiality must also be upheld during company outings. This means that no internal information is shared and a sensitive approach to personal data is maintained. Protecting data and information is a crucial aspect that assures trust from employees and business partners. It's advisable to adhere to the applicable data protection regulations even outside the workplace. Information on tax aspects can be found at Personio. Transparent communication about the importance of data protection and confidentiality is essential to raise employee awareness for responsible handling of information.
It's advisable to inform employees in advance about applicable data protection laws and provide them with the opportunity to ask questions. Ensure that all employees receive the same information and have the same expectations regarding their behaviour. Open and honest communication about data protection and confidentiality can help prevent misunderstandings and violations.
Take advantage of tax benefits: How to lower the costs of your company outing
Cost Coverage: Voluntary Benefit with Positive Effects
Employer-sponsored cost coverage is a voluntary benefit. However, there is the possibility for employee contributions. Full or partial cost coverage by the employer is often viewed as a sign of appreciation and can enhance employee motivation. It is important to clearly communicate cost coverage in advance and, if necessary, to reach an agreement with the employees. Information about costs can be found under Betriebsausflug Kosten buchen. Transparent communication about cost coverage is crucial to ensure that all employees feel treated fairly.
It is advisable to inform employees in advance about the costs of the company outing and to give them the opportunity to contribute to the costs. Ensure that all employees receive the same information and have the same opportunities to contribute to the costs. Open and honest communication about costs can help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts.
Optimising Tax Allowance: Save up to 110 Euros per Employee
The tax treatment of the company outing is governed by a tax allowance of 110 Euros (gross) per participant per year. If this allowance is exceeded, a flat-rate taxation will apply. It is important to consider tax aspects in advance and plan costs accordingly to avoid tax disadvantages. Information on tax aspects can be found under Betriebsausflug Freibetrag. Transparent communication about tax aspects is important to ensure that all employees are informed about the applicable regulations.
It is advisable to consult a tax advisor in advance to optimise the tax implications of the company outing. Ensure that all costs are correctly recorded and documented to make optimal use of the tax allowance. Careful planning and documentation of costs can help avoid tax disadvantages.
Accident Insurance: Ensure Coverage During the Official Part
During the official part and travel to and from, there is statutory accident insurance. However, this coverage lapses in cases of alcohol misuse or gross negligence. It is therefore important to behave responsibly to avoid jeopardising insurance coverage. The firmenabc.com provides further insights into the legal aspects. Further information on insurance can be found under Betriebsausflug BG versichert. Transparent communication about insurance coverage and liability risks is important to raise employee awareness for responsible behaviour.
It is advisable to inform employees in advance about the risks and dangers during the company outing. Inform them about applicable safety regulations and provide tips for safe behaviour. Providing emergency numbers and contact persons can also help ensure employees feel safe. Open and honest communication about risks and dangers can help prevent accidents and ensure the safety of employees.
Sickness notification on the day of the trip: A medical certificate of inability to work is mandatory
Certificate of Incapacity for Work: Proof Required on Sick Days, Including Excursion Days
If an employee falls ill on the day of the company excursion, the requirement to present a certificate of incapacity for work from the first day of illness applies if this is usual. This applies even on the day of the company excursion. Presenting a certificate of incapacity for work serves as proof of illness and secures the entitlement to continued payment of wages. It is important to adhere to the applicable reporting of illness regulations to avoid legal consequences. Transparent communication about the requirement to present a certificate of incapacity for work is crucial to ensure all employees are informed about the applicable regulations.
It is advisable to inform employees in advance about the applicable regulations for reporting illness and to provide them the opportunity to ask questions. Ensure that all employees receive the same information and have the same expectations regarding their conduct. Open and honest communication about reporting illness can help avoid misunderstandings and conflicts.
Continued Payment of Wages in Case of Illness: Entitlement Regardless of Company Excursion
In the event of illness, there is an entitlement to continued payment of wages, regardless of the company excursion. The prerequisite is a regular sick note. The entitlement to continued payment of wages secures the employee's income during illness and ensures that no financial disadvantages arise. It is important to submit the sick note on time and adhere to the applicable deadlines. Personio provides further information on this topic. Transparent communication about the entitlement to continued payment of wages is important to ensure all employees are informed about their rights.
It is advisable to inform employees in advance about the applicable regulations for continued payment of wages and to provide them the opportunity to ask questions. Ensure that all employees receive the same information and have the same expectations regarding their conduct. Open and honest communication about continued payment of wages can help avoid misunderstandings and conflicts.
Plan an unforgettable company outing: GoTuro is your partner!
More useful links
The Personio provides comprehensive information and insights into various aspects of company excursions, from legal frameworks to organisational tips.
poko.de informs about the rights of employees in relation to company excursions and offers valuable advice for works councils.
firmenabc.com highlights the legal aspects of company excursions and the distinction between leisure and duty.
FAQ
Are employees required to participate in a company outing?
No, there is generally no legal obligation to participate unless there are contractual agreements. Participation is voluntary.
What happens if an employee does not want to participate in a company outing that takes place during working hours?
The employee must either perform their regular duties or, in consultation with the employer, take leave. Simply being absent is not permitted.
Is a company outing considered working time?
Yes, if the company outing occurs during regular working hours, this time is considered working time with normal pay. There is generally no entitlement to overtime pay.
What is the "official end" of a company outing and why is it important?
The "official end" defines the point at which statutory accident insurance coverage ceases. It can be determined by a time frame or a specific event and should be clearly communicated.
Do all employees have the right to participate in a company outing?
Yes, as a rule, all employees have the right to participate, including those in dismissal or probation periods, unless operational necessities require an exception.
What tax benefits are available for company outings?
There is an exemption of 110 euros (gross) per participant per year. If this is exceeded, there will be a flat-rate taxation.
What happens if an employee is sick on the day of the company outing?
There is an obligation to present a certificate of incapacity for work from the first day of illness, if this is customary. This also applies on the day of the company outing.
Who is responsible for safety during the company outing?
The employer is responsible for ensuring a safe event, including informing employees about conduct rules and providing a safe environment.
