Gefährdungsbeurteilungen

Gefährdungsbeurteilung, which translates to risk assessment, is a systematic process used in German occupational safety and health law to identify and evaluate potential hazards in the workplace. The primary goal is to prevent work-related illnesses and accidents. Employers are legally obligated to conduct these assessments for all work activities and to document the results.

The process typically involves several steps. First, the workplace and its associated tasks are analyzed to identify potential sources of danger. These dangers can be physical, such as noise or hazardous substances, chemical, biological, or ergonomic. Psychological factors, like workload or bullying, are also considered. Second, the identified hazards are evaluated to determine the likelihood and severity of potential harm to employees. Third, based on this assessment, appropriate protective measures are developed and implemented. These measures aim to eliminate or reduce the risks to an acceptable level. Finally, the effectiveness of these measures is reviewed and, if necessary, the risk assessment is updated. This is a continuous cycle, ensuring that safety provisions remain adequate as working conditions change. The Gefährdungsbeurteilung is a cornerstone of preventative occupational safety in Germany.