Which legal regulations apply to occupational safety in my company?
May 27, 2023 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Selma Stamm
Dear Sir or Madam,
My name is Katja Schmidt and I work as an employee in a medium-sized production company. Lately, I have noticed an increasing number of safety gaps in my workplace, which has made me feel increasingly insecure. For example, there are inadequate emergency exits, missing fire safety measures, and unclear regulations regarding personal protective equipment. These circumstances concern me, and I wonder what legal requirements actually apply to occupational safety in my workplace.
I am concerned that the lack of compliance with occupational safety regulations not only jeopardizes my own safety, but also that of my colleagues. It is important to me that we all can work in a safe environment and do not have to take any health risks. Therefore, I would like to know which specific legal regulations apply in my workplace and whether they are actually being followed.
Could you please provide me with information on the specific regulations and ordinances in the field of occupational safety in my workplace and how they should be implemented? Are there any measures that my employer must take to ensure safety in the workplace? I would be very grateful if you could assist me in gaining more clarity on my rights and obligations in the field of occupational safety.
Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Katja Schmidt
Dear Mrs. Schmidt,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding occupational safety in your medium-sized production company. As an occupational physician, it is important to me to inform you about your rights and obligations in the field of occupational safety and to show you possible measures to ensure your safety at the workplace.
Fundamental for occupational safety in Germany are the Occupational Safety and Health Act (ArbSchG) and the Workplace Ordinance (ArbStättV). These laws establish the general duties of employers and employees to ensure safety and health in the workplace. In addition, there are specific regulations and guidelines depending on the industry and area of activity that must also be observed.
In your case, as an employee in a production company, the rules of the Employers' Liability Insurance Associations (BG) should be particularly relevant. They are responsible for the prevention of work accidents and occupational diseases and issue regulations that companies must comply with. This includes measures for fire protection, ergonomic design of workstations, and provision of personal protective equipment.
To ensure safety in the workplace, it is important that your employer complies with all legal requirements and conducts regular risk assessments. Potential risks in the workplace are identified and appropriate measures are taken to minimize these risks. In addition, regular training and instructions on safety and health topics should be offered to strengthen awareness of occupational safety.
If you identify specific safety gaps in your company, I recommend that you report them promptly to your supervisor or the responsible safety officer. It is important that potential hazards are addressed quickly to ensure the safety of all employees.
I hope that I was able to help you with this information and I am available for any further questions. Your safety at the workplace should be a top priority, and it is important that you are aware of and demand your rights in the field of occupational safety.
Sincerely,
Selma Stamm, Occupational Physician
