Safety representative (Sicherheitsbeauftragte)
Also: Sicherheitsbeauftragter, Sicherheitsbeauftragte, SiBe
Definition
Safety representatives are employees who support the employer with accident prevention on a voluntary basis alongside their regular work: they keep an eye on protective devices and PPE, report defects and are a point of contact for colleagues. Mandatory from 50 regular employees, from more than 20 if there are particular hazards.
The legal basis is Section 22 of Social Code Book VII (SGB VII) and Section 20 of DGUV Regulation 1; the threshold of 50 employees has been set by law since 29 May 2026. The number depends on accident and health hazards, company size and physical proximity to employees. Safety representatives have no authority to give instructions and no liability beyond the normal level – they observe, report and advise. The employer must give them time and allow training; the employers' liability insurance associations offer free seminars.
Safety representatives should not be confused with the occupational safety specialist, who requires specialist training and acts as an adviser.
Legal basis
- Section 22 SGB VII
- Section 20 DGUV Regulation 1
- DGUV Rule 100-001, section 4.2
Learn more
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.
