Statutory occupational accident insurance has the task of undertaking measures to prevent job-related accidents and illnesses, as well as to protect workers from on-the-job hazards. In cases where occupational accidents or illnesses do occur, accident insurance provides assistance toward restoring the health and working ability of the persons involved and compensation to the insured persons or their survivors through the provision of cash benefits.
The primary mission of statutory occupational accident insurance according to the legislation is to use all means at its disposal to prevent occupational accidents and illnesses from occurring in the first place and to minimise potential job-related hazards. The focus is placed on advising companies in all matters having to do with industrial safety and health. This includes providing employers and employees with comprehensive instructions and guidelines, as well as informational media. The accident insurance agencies also hold free informational, motivational events on the subject of safety at work.
If an insured person has an accident at work or suffers from an occupational illness, statutory occupational accident insurance covers the resulting costs. This means that the insurance fund provides the best possible medical, occupational and social rehabilitation, as well as financial compensation if applicable.
In the event of an occupational accident or illness, statutory occupational accident insurance provides:
The top priority of the accident insurance fund is to restore the health and ability to work of the insured person. Pensions are paid to fund members only when it is not possible to fully restore their ability to work, i.e. for those whose earning capacity is reduced by at least 20 percent.
You can find detailed information on the benefits provided by statutory occupational accident insurance in Germany on the following websites:
