Efficient transport and office buildings policies

Even though some of these factors depend on the Belgian authorities, it is necessary for the Commission to assert itself.

In transport, colleagues should see their daily journeys eased by decent infrastructure open to all: pedestrians, users of bikes, cars and public transport. The FFPE has already strived for free use of some forms of transport and continues to do so. The "European quarter" must meet minimum sustainability standards and construction works must respect a charter of good conduct to preserve safety in the street.

In terms of building policy, FFPE closely monitors the Commission's proposals to make sure that they take account not only of the costs, but also improved connections between the various offices and with nurseries, schools, and home...

FFPE is also opposed to staff being located in sick buildings; it goes without saying that all buildings must be free of asbestos, but also of organic pollution and must set an example in energy saving and sustainability. Moreover, the greatest attention must be paid to the ergonomics of office furniture and workstations.

Limit “Open Space office” and reject “Hot-desking”

These office layouts are often incompatible with colleagues’ tasks such as auditing, negotiation, text editing, and interviews concerning sensitive topics and personnel matters. They violate privacy and de-stabilise staff by disrupting their concentration and give a negative image to visitors.

This results in decreases in productivity and increased stress-related absences, as confirmed by recent studies. Any financial gains from open-plan offices are offset by losses.

FFPE is monitoring the correct application of the office accommodation manual which sets minimum standards for the installation of open-plan offices.

Fight against all forms of Harassment

With the new working conditions required of a modern administration (!! - competition, insecurity, policies ...), harassment is on the increase, whether personal, administrative or of other nature. It becomes a management tool to crush an individual or reduce costs. It is used against people who have been weakened by unfortunate personal or professional events. FFPE believes these are unacceptable practices. It defends all colleagues against such harassment.

A safe workload for all to avoid “Burnout”

On the occasion of the reform of the Staff Regulations, the workforce was reduced by over 5% in most services without any decrease in workload! The increase in the working week to 40 hours does not compensate for the departure of colleagues. And over-work becomes a major concern, including for the medical service! FFPE denounces this damage to the health of staff, and the resulting additional costs to the institution.

Those who wish to benefit from part-time working should be able to do so with a corresponding reduction in their workload and without being discriminated against. The Staff Regulations provide solutions for all and especially to those who feel the need to take a breather to preserve their health and future.

More flexible working time arrangements

It is absurd to measure performance according to presence in the office beyond normal hours or non-recovery of hours worked. Monitoring of working hours is becoming a paranoia that is poisoning relations between colleagues and superiors. In the context of new technologies, these practices are from a bygone age. We advocate a return to a relationship based on trust and greater flexibility to make professional life more positive and motivating. There needs to be an emphasis on flexibility and more accessible and widespread teleworking. To achieve this, FFPE calls for the re-negotiation of the rules on working time.

Quality food in restaurants and cafeterias, easily accessible

Because food is a key health factor, the institution must concern itself with providing its staff with a high-quality service and not just with making savings.

The decline in the quality of products and services (opening hours, queues ...) in restaurants and cafeterias is leading colleagues to eat elsewhere and this will only result in more closures! The Commission is setting the wrong example at a time when it is encouraging European companies to care for well-being at work!