Risk assessment (Gefährdungsbeurteilung)
Also: Gefährdungsbeurteilung, GBU, hazard assessment
Definition
The risk assessment is the systematic identification and evaluation of hazards at work with the aim of defining protective measures. Under Section 5 of the German Occupational Safety and Health Act, it is mandatory for every employer from the first employee and must be documented.
The process follows seven steps: define work areas, identify hazards, assess them, define measures, implement them, check their effectiveness, document and update. Eleven hazard factors are considered – from mechanical and electrical hazards to hazardous substances and noise to mental workload.
The risk assessment is the basis for almost all other duties: operating instructions, safety instructions, PPE, inspection intervals and occupational health checks all follow from it. It must be updated when work equipment, processes or findings change.
Legal basis
- Sections 5, 6 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (ArbSchG)
- Section 3 BetrSichV, Section 6 GefStoffV, Section 3 ArbStättV
- Section 10 of the Maternity Protection Act (MuSchG)
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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.
