Working hours for GP drivers? Get free advice!

Questioner

Good day, I am a GP driver. I transport GPs with a priority vehicle to patients and assist the GP during rounds. My employer requires me to be present 15 minutes before the actual start of the shift to do preparatory tasks. However, this is not paid out. In the 'GP driver manual' provided by my employer it says: ------2.3 Before the start of the shift: The first visit of the shift may be an emergency visit where a patient is in a life-threatening situation. It is therefore important that a number of tasks have already been completed before the shift starts. Please be on time, at least 15 minutes before the service starts: Register via the special dial-in/dial-out telephone Check car for damage/lighting/tank contents Check tires for damage, pressure and tread Seat/mirrors in the correct position and prepare the car for the first drive. Check the contents of the suitcases and bags (possibly together with the doctor on duty) to see if they are complete Place suitcases and bags in the back of the car and connect the phone and check it on the system Start the car and see if the indicator lights go out and stay off. Mark personal workbook correctly. Experience shows that preparation takes on average between 10 and 20 minutes. It is the responsibility of the GP driver to ensure that the preparatory tasks are carried out correctly.------- I believe this is just working time. Can I hold my employer accountable for this? Is there a legal regulation about this?

Lawyer

I share your opinion that this is simply working time now that your employer makes it mandatory.

Lawyer

Completely agree. The Court of Justice of the EU recently ruled that working time, if you do not have a fixed workplace, begins when you leave home. This is a different case, but I think it is in line with this. Moreover, there is an old ruling (just after the war) of the Supreme Court that also goes in this direction. I therefore advise you to request payment of this quarter per day.

Questioner

Thank you both gentlemen for your response! I will consult with my colleagues to determine possible steps to take towards the employer. If there are any other people who would like to respond who have knowledge of and/or experience with a similar issue, please do!