The term "ASR" (Technical Rules for Workplaces) specifies how working conditions are to be implemented in detail and applies to all operators of workplaces. They serve to specify the Workplace Ordinance (ArbStättV), which should facilitate the implementation of this ordinance.
The ASR sets out rules for determining the safety, protection, and health of employees in the workplace. The purpose of these rules is to avoid safety risks and to identify and prevent potential hazards. Measures against fire, sanitary and first-aid rooms, medical care, and safe workplaces are examples of measures that apply to the protection of employees.
The Technical Rules for Workplaces are based on presumptive effects and are therefore not binding. When implementing the ASR, companies can assume (presume) that they meet the requirements.
At the time of publication, the regulations were up to date in terms of technology, hygiene, and occupational medicine, which is why it was decided in 2013 that some regulations would need to be revised if necessary. As soon as a regulation has been changed, employers should check whether they still meet the new requirements.
What happens if the ASR are not complied with?
The occupational safety authority usually carries out unannounced checks to verify compliance with the ASR. If these are not complied with, the employer is requested to comply or, in the worst case, this can lead to the shutdown of work and facilities. Since the ASR is not binding, companies can ensure the safety of their employees with their own solutions, but these must offer the same level of safety and health protection as the ASR.
Example of a list of ASR:
ASR A.1.6 Doors and gates
ASR A1.8: Traffic routes
ASR A2.3: Escape routes and emergency exits, escape and rescue plan
ASR V3a.2: Barrier-free design of workplaces
ASR A.3.5 Room temperature
