Français
Deutsch
Italiano
Español
Nederlands
Polski
The German Workplace Ordinance (Arbeitsstättenverordnung, ArbStättV) governs what safe workplaces in Germany must look like. It applies to offices, workshops, shops and public authorities. It also includes rules on fire protection. Here you can read what the Workplace Ordinance requires and how to implement it in everyday work.
What does the Workplace Ordinance regulate?
The ordinance itself is short. It mainly sets out objectives, for example safe routes, good lighting and protection against fire. The details are laid down in the Technical Rules for Workplaces, ASR for short. If a company complies with these rules, the ordinance is deemed to be fulfilled. You can find the text (in German) at Gesetze im Internet.
Fire protection under the Workplace Ordinance
The following rules are particularly important for fire protection:
- ASR A2.2: Fire extinguishers and fire prevention measures. More in the article Fire extinguishers in the office.
- ASR A2.3: Escape routes and emergency exits. More under Escape signs.
- ASR A1.3: Safety signs. The page Warning signs and safety signs provides an overview.
- ASR A4.3: First aid. More in the article First aid kits for companies.
And the electrical appliances in the kitchenette?
The ordinance does not explicitly require a fireproof mat. However, the employer must assess hazards and prevent fires. This includes coffee machines, kettles and toasters. The DGUV Rule 115-401 therefore recommends a non-combustible base under such appliances in offices. You can read more in the article DGUV Rule 115-401.
How to implement the rules
- Provide fire extinguishers and have them inspected every two years.
- Keep escape routes clear and mark them.
- Provide first aid kits and trained first aiders.
- Place heat-generating appliances on a FireMat (certified by TÜV SÜD according to DIN EN ISO 11925-2).
Who monitors compliance?
The occupational safety authorities of the federal states and the employers’ liability insurance associations check whether companies comply with the rules. Violations can result in fines. After a fire, the insurer will also ask whether all requirements were met. It is therefore worth documenting the risk assessment carefully.
Does the ordinance also apply to working from home?
Only certain parts of the ordinance apply to telework stations. Nevertheless, the same protection is worthwhile there, because coffee machines and chargers are found at home too.
You will find suitable products under Fire protection mats for electrical appliances and Signs and markings. For public authorities and companies, we also offer our page Bulk orders on invoice.
