According to the requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and the accident prevention regulation "Principles of Prevention" (DGUV Regulation 1), the employer is obliged to inform the employees about the hazards arising from their work. This should be done before they start work and at regular intervals - at least once a year, for young people at least every six months.
How often and how precisely must the instruction take place?
The instruction should not only be general. It must take into account the specific workplace, the scope of the activities and the understanding of the workers. To ensure effective education, the instruction must cover measures against the occurrence of fires and explosions as well as teach the correct behaviour in hazardous situations.
What additional regulations apply when working with hazardous substances and work equipment?
According to the Ordinance on Hazardous Substances and the Ordinance on Industrial Safety and Health, the entrepreneur or business owner must draw up operating instructions for such activities if this is required. These instructions should be kept in an easily accessible place in the company. The basis for these instructions is a careful risk assessment. It is crucial that these operating instructions are written in a language that workers can understand.
How are the instructions documented?
It is not enough just to carry out the instructions. It is also important to record their content and timing in writing. This serves as proof and to check whether all employees have been properly instructed. In addition, all persons instructed should confirm this documentation with their signature. This ensures that they have received and understood the instruction.
Why are regular briefings so important?
Safety in the workplace is of utmost importance. Regular instruction ensures that all employees are informed about possible hazards and know how they should behave in dangerous situations. This reduces the risk of workplace accidents and ensures that everyone knows what to do in an emergency. It is not only a legal obligation, but also an ethical responsibility of the entrepreneur towards his employees.