Plan the annual hazardous substances briefing for every employee

The employer ensures that employees have access to written operating instructions (Betriebsanweisung) that reflect the risk assessment, in a form and language they understand. They contain at least information on the hazardous substances present or produced at the workplace, on precautions such as hygiene rules, measures to prevent exposure and the use of personal protective equipment, and on measures in the event of malfunctions, accidents and emergencies. They are updated whenever working conditions change significantly (Section 14(1) of the German Hazardous Substances Ordinance, GefStoffV).

On the basis of these operating instructions, employees are briefed orally on all hazards that arise and the corresponding protective measures. The briefing includes general occupational-medical and toxicological advice, which also explains when employees are entitled to occupational health check-ups; where necessary, it is given with the involvement of the occupational physician under Section 7(1) of the Occupational Health Care Ordinance (ArbMedVV) (Section 14(2)).

The briefing must take place before employment starts and then at least once a year, related to the workplace and in a form and language the employees understand. Content and date are recorded in writing and confirmed by the employees' signatures (Section 14(2)). Employees also have access to the information under Article 35 of the REACH Regulation, in particular safety data sheets (Section 14(1)).