Starting point
A sticker with an annual date does not show whether scope and interval match the equipment. Use, environment, consequences of failure, manufacturer information and previous results can require different intervals.
Legal and technical basis
Under the German Ordinance on Industrial Safety and Health, the employer assesses hazards, determines necessary inspections and intervals and specifies the competence of the inspecting person. TRBS 1201 provides technical guidance.
Who decides?
The employer remains responsible and may take advice from specialists, competent persons, manufacturer information and technical rules. The inspecting person performs the commissioned inspection but does not automatically define the entire inspection organisation.
Common mistakes
Using one annual interval for all assets, overlooking inspections after repair or exceptional events, choosing the wrong competence, and failing to manage defects are recurring weaknesses.
Organisation checklist
Identify equipment, assess hazards, define method, scope, interval and competence, manage defects and review results to adjust future intervals.
Frequently asked questions
Is there always a statutory annual interval?
No. For many items the interval is determined by the risk assessment, while specific binding requirements must still be observed.
Are ladder and electrical inspections the same service?
No. Methods and competence differ and should be organised separately.
Technical foundations
The specific operational and project situation must always be assessed.