What is a Berufsgenossenschaft?
The commercial employers' liability insurance associations (Berufsgenossenschaften) are the providers of statutory accident insurance in Germany. They are organised by industry and provide cover for workplace accidents, commuting accidents and occupational diseases. Their main task is to prevent workplace accidents and occupational diseases, promote employees' health and provide benefits once an accident or illness has occurred.
Duties for employers
1. Registration and contributions Every employer must register their company with the responsible Berufsgenossenschaft. The amount of the accident insurance contributions depends on the company's risk class and the employees' pay. The employer bears these contributions alone. They must not be passed on to employees.
2. Occupational safety measures Employers must make sure workplaces are safe and comply with the statutory occupational safety rules. The Berufsgenossenschaften support them with advice and information material. They also carry out regular safety inspections and make recommendations for improving occupational safety.
3. Reporting accidents Every workplace or commuting accident that leads to more than three days of incapacity for work must be reported to the Berufsgenossenschaft. Occupational diseases must also be reported immediately. These reports are important to secure claims to accident insurance benefits.
Rights and duties of employees
1. Insurance cover All employees are automatically insured by their employer with the responsible Berufsgenossenschaft. This cover applies to employees in the classic sense as well as to apprentices, interns and volunteers. It covers workplace accidents, commuting accidents (accidents on the direct route to and from work) and occupational diseases.
2. Benefits for workplace accidents and occupational diseases After a workplace accident or an occupational disease, employees are entitled to comprehensive care. This includes:
- Medical treatment: The Berufsgenossenschaft covers the costs of all necessary treatment, remedies and aids.
- Injury benefit (Verletztengeld): If the employee is unable to work, the Berufsgenossenschaft pays injury benefit once the employer's continued pay ends, starting from the 7th week of incapacity for work. It is usually 80% of the last gross income.
- Rehabilitation and return to work: Medical and vocational rehabilitation is supported to help employees return to work as quickly as possible.
- Pension and compensation: In the case of permanent health impairment, an injury pension (Verletztenrente) can be granted.
Prevention work of the Berufsgenossenschaften
Prevention is a core part of the Berufsgenossenschaften's work. They offer training and seminars, provide information material and run accident prevention campaigns. They also have the right to inspect companies and impose fines if occupational safety measures are not followed.
Conclusion on the Berufsgenossenschaften
The Berufsgenossenschaften play a crucial role in occupational safety and social protection in Germany. Employers need to take their duties on registration and occupational safety seriously. Employees should know their rights and the benefits of accident insurance. If companies or employees have questions or are unsure, they can contact the responsible Berufsgenossenschaft directly for comprehensive support and advice.
