Align the work with the real organisation
Sector, tasks, equipment and organisational structure determine the relevant safety questions. A sound assessment therefore begins with the workplace, not a standard checklist.
Before working together, the specific scope and the appropriately qualified person responsible need to be established.
Design the interfaces deliberately
Management, line managers, employees, works councils, occupational physicians and safety specialists have different roles. Clear handovers prevent duplication and unattended tasks.
Advice must lead to managed action
Recommendations become useful when owners, timeframes and effectiveness reviews are defined and documented appropriately.
A traceable process
A practical approach, step by step.
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Define the need
Describe the reason, work areas and current support.
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Assign the duties
Identify relevant safety tasks and organisational interfaces.
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Structure action
Set priorities, owners and necessary evidence.
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Review developments
Revisit changes and effectiveness at suitable points.
FAQ
Common questions, answered directly.
What does SiFa mean?
SiFa is the common German abbreviation for an occupational safety specialist. The statutory duties are described in the German Occupational Safety Act.
Does the specialist take over the employer’s responsibility?
No. The specialist advises and supports; employer responsibility remains in place.
Is the arrangement the same for every organisation?
No. The duties and framework depend on the operational situation and applicable rules.
Source basis
Sources and further reading.
- Section 6 ASiG – duties of occupational safety specialists Bundesministerium der Justiz / Bundesamt für Justiz
- DGUV Regulation 2 – occupational physicians and occupational safety specialists Deutsche Gesetzliche Unfallversicherung
- Section 3 ArbSchG – general duties of the employer Bundesministerium der Justiz / Bundesamt für Justiz