When does a company need an occupational safety specialist?

Starting point

As soon as a business employs staff, it must determine how occupational health and safety support is organised. There is no single number of hours that applies to every company; the German Occupational Safety Act, the relevant DGUV Regulation 2 and the actual risk profile must be considered.

Legal and technical basis

Section 5 ASiG requires the employer to appoint occupational safety specialists in writing where necessary in view of the operation, hazards, workforce and organisation. DGUV Regulation 2 specifies service models, tasks and scope.

Common mistakes

Appointment is often confused with transferring the employer's responsibility. The specialist advises and supports; decisions and implementation remain with the employer and responsible managers.

• issuing an appointment letter without defining tasks and access
• planning only by hours rather than hazards
• failing to involve the occupational physician and managers
• not reassessing support after operational change

Practical example

A growing company introduces new machinery and work areas. Rather than carrying forward the previous hours, it reviews hazards, changes and upcoming projects, producing a practical service plan and prioritised actions.

Employer checklist

Confirm the accident insurer, applicable regulation, headcount, type of operation, risk assessments, written appointment, reporting line and a plan for inspections, documentation and effectiveness checks.