Hazardous substance (Gefahrstoff)

Whether a substance is hazardous follows from its classification under the CLP Regulation, recognisable by the pictogram, signal word and H statements on the label. Substances with an occupational exposure limit also count as hazardous substances, as do those that can endanger health because of their properties or the way they are used – for example wood dust or welding fumes, which are only created during work.

Activities involving hazardous substances are subject to the duties of the Hazardous Substances Ordinance: risk assessment, substitution check, protective measures, register, operating instructions, safety instruction and, where applicable, occupational health checks.

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.