Occupational Safety Act (ASiG)
Also: ASiG, Arbeitssicherheitsgesetz
Definition
The Occupational Safety Act requires employers in Germany to appoint company doctors and occupational safety specialists, and governs their tasks and the occupational safety committee.
The 1973 Act on company doctors, safety engineers and other occupational safety specialists ensures that every employer receives expert advice – regardless of company size. The company doctor and the occupational safety specialist advise, inspect the workplace, investigate accidents and contribute to the risk assessment (Sections 3 and 6).
How much support is needed is specified in DGUV Regulation 2, with service hours depending on the type and size of the company. Depending on the accident insurance institution, companies with up to 50 employees can choose the alternative needs-based support model. From more than 20 employees, an occupational safety committee must be set up (Section 11).
Legal basis
- Occupational Safety Act (ASiG)
- DGUV Regulation 2 “Company doctors and occupational safety specialists”
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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.




