Philip Imundi The world of work constantly demands productivity, often excessively so, and leaves no room for the breaks that are essential for mental and physical well-being. Consequently, in extreme cases, employees take them, carefully considering their actions. This isn't enough, and it can lead to legal disputes.
This is the case of an employee from Varese.
New mother falls asleep at work, fired
The case in question occurred in 2023 when the young woman had just become the mother of a child and, as is well known, in the first few months, new parents have very little space to sleep.
She then decided to return early from her lunch break and lie down on the sofa in the infirmary of the company where she worked. The relaxation lasted longer than expected and she was caught sleeping by her superiors.
This behavior led to her dismissal from her job. It was somewhat unreasonable behavior, especially considering it didn't happen during work hours , but during her lunch break, a normal time for a break from the routine.
The judge overturns the woman's dismissal, awarding her severance pay, compensation, and back wages.
This case ended up in court after the incident was reconstructed and several witnesses to the incident were heard.
The judge therefore revoked the dismissal of the woman , currently employed by another company, awarding her, as reported by TgCom24 , compensation of 35 thousand euros for " dismissal without just cause" which also occurred before the child's first birthday.
In addition to the compensation, she is also entitled to severance pay and back contributions, given that she had changed jobs after opting for reinstatement.
The employers should have "sanctioned her with a precautionary measure", states the ruling of the Varese court.