The works council plays a crucial role in occupational safety and health. Through its co-determination rights, it not only monitors compliance with legal standards but also actively contributes to creating health-promoting working conditions. Key topics include ergonomic workplace design, preventing excessive workloads, and implementing sustainable health concepts.
Our consulting and training programs support works councils in this demanding task by providing practical knowledge and strengthening the decision-making competence of the committees in the field of occupational safety and health. Details of these and other services are listed below.
Rights and Duties of the Works Council in Occupational Safety and Health
The works council is responsible for monitoring compliance with occupational safety and health regulations and actively contributing to the creation of safe working conditions. Its co-determination rights under Section 87 (1) No. 7 of the Works Constitution Act (BetrVG) enable it to participate in shaping preventive measures and health promotion initiatives.
Through collaboration and negotiations with the employer, the works council can implement effective solutions to safeguard employees’ health.
Risk Assessment: Identifying and Preventing Hazards
The risk assessment is a key instrument of occupational safety and health. The works council ensures that potential risks are systematically analyzed and appropriate protective measures are implemented. This includes not only physical protection but also the consideration of psychological stress factors, which have been a mandatory part of risk assessment since the 2013 reform of the Act on the Implementation of Measures of Occupational Safety and Health (ArbSchG).
By negotiating works agreements with the employer, the works council can ensure that all suitable preventive measures are implemented to create a healthy working environment.
Workplace Reintegration Management and Corporate Health Management
Workplace Reintegration Management (Betriebliches Eingliederungsmanagement; BEM) helps employees return to work after a prolonged illness. The works council plays a key role by advocating for individualized solutions that take employees’ health needs into account.
Corporate Health Management (Betriebliches Gesundheitsmanagement; BGM) goes beyond mere prevention: It includes measures to promote long-term health, such as stress management programs, physical activity offerings, or fostering a health-conscious corporate culture. Active participation of the works council in this area significantly contributes to healthier working conditions.
Working Hours and Mental Health
Working time regulations have a significant impact on employees’ mental and physical health. The works council advocates for appropriate working hours, sufficient breaks, and protection against excessive workloads. This also includes measures against constant availability and excessive overtime to reduce psychological stress.
Proactive working time management helps minimize health risks while simultaneously increasing job satisfaction and productivity.
Collaboration with Occupational Safety Specialists and Company Doctors
Close cooperation with the Occupational Safety Committee (ASA), occupational safety specialists, and company doctor is essential for continuously improving occupational health and safety. These experts can provide valuable consulting to the works council, helping to identify hazards and developing targeted measures.
Training and Consulting: Knowledge and Support as the Basis for Co-Determination
Effective participation in occupational health and safety requires specialized knowledge. We offer practical training and consulting services for works councils, based on current legal regulations and scientific findings.
Our services include training and consulting on topics such as:
- Occupational safety organization: Roles of the works council, employer, occupational safety specialist, company doctor, and supervisory authorities
- Occupational Safety Committee (ASA)
- Risk assessment (physical-technical and psychological risk assessment)
- BEM and BGM
Additional services:
- Consulting on the review and assessment of occupational health and safety documents (e.g., risk assessment documentation, planning documents for relocation or renovation, BEM procedures, etc.)
- Conducting psychological risk assessments
- Strategies for negotiating with the employer
- Support in negotiations and participation in conciliation committee
Give your works council the knowledge and tools they need to actively shape a safe and healthy working environment. Our works council consultancy and training services ensure compliance, strengthen decision-making and support effective negotiations. Contact us for advice and training.