Berufsgenossenschaft (employers' liability insurance association)
Also: BG, employers' liability insurance association, accident insurance institution
Definition
Berufsgenossenschaften are the statutory accident insurance institutions for private-sector companies in Germany, organised by industry. They insure against workplace accidents and occupational diseases, and advise and monitor companies on occupational safety.
There are nine Berufsgenossenschaften for the commercial sector, for example the BG Holz und Metall (wood and metal), the BGHW for trade and logistics, the BG ETEM for energy, textiles, electrical and media products, or the BGW for health services and welfare. Every company is by law a member of the Berufsgenossenschaft responsible for its industry and pays contributions; insurance is free of charge for employees.
Public-sector employers are insured with accident insurance funds (Unfallkassen). Both types of institution have inspectors who visit companies, advise them and can issue orders if there are deficiencies; violations of accident prevention regulations can be fined up to €10,000 (Section 209 SGB VII).
Legal basis
- Social Code Book VII (SGB VII)
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Related terms
This glossary entry gives a general overview of German occupational safety law and does not replace legal advice. The regulations in force and the rules of the statutory accident insurance institutions are authoritative.
