Article 8 paragraph 3 of the Swiss Constitution stipulates that men and women should receive equal pay for equal work or work of equal value. For Swissmem, helping to make this gender equality requirement a reality is a key priority. In doing so, Swissmem is focusing on transparency and, in partnership with Landolt & Mächler Consultants AG, has offered its member companies a detailed wage comparison service since 2004.

The wage equality audit is carried out using the “Abakaba” method (analytical evaluation of working activities). This assesses each activity using 26 non-discriminatory criteria and incorporates the regression analysis prescribed by the Confederation. The method used to verify wage equality satisfies the requirements of the Gender Equality Act.

Swissmem member companies are making equal pay a reality

This offering is having an impact. Over the years, the wage gap between men and women in the MEM industries has narrowed steadily. It now stands considerably below the 5% tolerance threshold. This shows that the Swissmem companies take the issue of “equal pay for work of equal value” very seriously and provide men and women with equal pay for work of equal value.