Does the works council require the approval of co-workers?

No, the works council doesn’t need the approval of co-workers in order to give advice or consent. However, in some cases the works council is required to inform the colleagues. For instance, the works council has to inform the colleagues of the agenda for the meetings of the works council. In addition, the minutes of these meetings and the annual report of the works council have to be disclosed.

Naturally, it is advisable to involve the colleagues as the works council represents their interests. The director has to enable the works council to consult their co-workers. Keep in mind, that the works council has a duty of confidentiality regarding affairs and business secrets. Besides, the director might have imposed an obligation for secrecy on the works council regarding certain affairs. Therefore, not all information can be forwarded to the colleagues.