Betreiber

Betreiber is a German noun referring to a person or entity that operates a facility, system, or service. The operator is typically responsible for the day-to-day running, maintenance, safety, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Ownership and operation can be by the same party or by different ones, and the term often appears in legal or regulatory contexts to designate who has the operational duties.

Applications and scope include a wide range of sectors. Common examples are the operator of a power plant or other energy facility, the operator of transport infrastructure such as railways or airports, the operator of telecommunications networks, and the operator of healthcare facilities or information technology platforms. In regulated sectors, the operator’s duties are defined by law or licensing regimes and can include safety management systems, risk assessment, incident reporting, environmental protection, and emergency planning. Operators may be required to obtain and maintain permits, conduct regular inspections, and ensure staff training and competence.

Usage and nuance distinguish operator from owner. The term emphasizes operational responsibility rather than ownership. In some contexts, other terms may be used, such as “Verantwortlicher” in data protection or specific industry terminology. In German legal language, phrases like “Betreiberpflichten” or “Betreiberverantwortung” are common and denote the obligations associated with operating a facility or service.