Fact Sheet

Basis principle

DGUV is the umbrella association of the German social accident insurance institutions: the Berufsgenossenschaften (BG), responsible for trade and industry and the Unfallkassen (UK), responsible for the public sector. DGUV is funded by contributions from its members.

DGUV assumes responsibility for the common interests of its member institutions. DGUV represents the social accident insurance institutions in their dealings with policymakers at a regional and national level as well as with European and international institutions, and employers’ associations and trade unions.

Financial compensation

After an occupational accident or a recognized occupational disease, insured persons receive financial support to secure their livelihood. This includes injury benefits during incapacity for work, transition benefits during rehabilitation measures, and pensions in case of permanent reduction in earning capacity. In the event of death, survivors such as spouses or children are entitled to pensions and other benefits. The aim is to prevent financial hardship and ensure long-term security.

Medical treatment responsibilities

The social accident insurance system ensures that insured persons receive comprehensive medical treatment following a work-related accident or recognized occupational disease. This includes immediate and ongoing medical care, medication, therapies, surgical interventions if needed, and provision of necessary aids.

Prevention responsibilities

One of the central aims of the social accident insurance system is to prevent accidents at work, occupational diseases, and work-related health issues. This is achieved through a combination of regulatory measures, awareness campaigns, workplace consultations, and regular inspections in companies. The system actively promotes safe working practices, provides guidance on risk assessment and hazard prevention, and encourages employers to implement effective occupational health and safety programs. By supporting training and education for both employees and management, the system fosters a culture of safety and shared responsibility, aiming to reduce workplace risks and protect the long-term health of the workforce.

Research in OS&H issues responsibilities

The social accident insurance system supports research in occupational safety and health. Findings are incorporated into prevention strategies, treatment concepts, and practical guidelines. DGUV is responsible for research on OS&H issues; DGUV research facilities are the Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (IFA), the Institute for Work and Health (IAG) and the Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance (IPA). Furthermore several BGs have research institutes.

Rehabilitation of victims of occupational injuries responsibilities

In addition to acute treatment, the system provides medical, occupational, and social rehabilitation. The goal is to reintegrate affected persons into working life and society as quickly and sustainably as possible. To support this, the statutory accident insurance maintains a network of specialized facilities, including nine acute care hospitals, two hospitals for occupational diseases, and two injury treatment units.

Specific insurance against accidents at work and occupational diseases

Social accident insurance is one pillar of the Social security system in Germany. Its legal basis is the Social Code Book VII.

Is this insurance compulsory?

Yes. Social accident insurance is compulsory. Insured activities are automatically covered even if there is no legal basis (e.g. contract of labour) or contributions have not been paid.

Contributions

The social accident insurance is financed by employers.

People covered

Employees, students, pupils and activities that are explicitly mentioned in the Social Code Book VII are covered. Most self-employed people and entrepreneurs can insure themselves voluntarily against the consequences of an accident at work or occupational disease under the social accident insurance scheme. Some groups of entrepreneurs are covered by social accident insurance by law, i.e. without having to apply. These include individuals self-employed in health or social care services. Moreover, certain groups of entrepreneurs can get insurance from accident insurance institutions, as set out in their statutes. Social accident insurance is not responsible for public servants.

Is insurance different for accidents at work and for occupational diseases?

No. The same benefits apply to both occupational accidents and occupational diseases.

Risks covered

Accidents at work, occupational diseases, commuting accidents.

Web: www.dguv.de/en/index.jsp
Contact email: international@dguv.de

Information provided by DGUV – August 2025