Fines & Enforcement
What fines should I expect if BGM obligations aren't met?
Under German law, fines range from €2,500 (no occupational safety committee) to €25,000 (no psychological hazard assessment). Inspections are carried out by trade supervisory authorities or accident insurers, usually triggered by accidents, complaints, or spot checks.
Fine ranges by violation
| Violation | Legal basis | Fine range |
|---|---|---|
| Missing psychological hazard assessment (GBPsych) | ArbSchG § 5 | €5,000–25,000 |
| Missing general hazard assessment/documentation | ArbSchG § 4–6 | €5,000–10,000 |
| No occupational safety specialist | ASiG § 5 | €5,000–10,000 |
| No occupational medical care | ASiG § 2 | €5,000–10,000 |
| No occupational safety committee (from 20 employees) | ASiG § 11 | €2,500–10,000 |
| No safety officers (from 20 employees) | DGUV Regulation 1 § 20 | €2,500–5,000 |
How an inspection typically unfolds
Inspections by trade supervisory authorities or accident insurers are rarely random — the most common triggers are workplace accidents, employee complaints, or routine spot checks in certain industries. Inspectors first check documentation: Is there a current hazard assessment? Can training sessions be proven? Has a safety specialist or company doctor been appointed?
When deficiencies are found, the authority usually sets a deadline for remediation first. Fines are mainly imposed for repeat violations, particularly serious gaps (a complete absence of the GBPsych assessment), or in connection with a workplace accident.
Beyond the fine: liability risk
Beyond the fine itself, workplace accidents or work-related illnesses without a documented hazard assessment can trigger additional civil liability risk for organizational negligence — particularly personal liability for management. Termination for illness-related reasons without a documented BEM offer is also significantly more vulnerable in court and is frequently ruled invalid.
Key takeaways
- Note: this reflects German law. Fine ranges run from €2,500 to €25,000 depending on the violation
- GBPsych violations carry the highest range, up to €25,000
- Inspections are usually triggered by accidents, complaints, or spot checks
- Beyond the fine, management faces personal liability risk
- Documented BEM offers protect against vulnerable illness-related terminations
Frequently asked questions
Is a fine imposed immediately on the first violation?+
Usually not. Authorities typically set a deadline for remediation first. Fines are more common for repeat violations, serious gaps, or in connection with a specific incident.
Is management personally liable for missing occupational safety measures?+
Yes, in cases of provable organizational negligence — for example, if a missing hazard assessment was the cause of a workplace accident or work-related illness, management can be held personally liable.
Is a termination for illness without a BEM offer automatically invalid?+
Not automatically, but the requirements for a lawful termination rise significantly — labor courts strictly examine whether milder measures (such as a BEM offer) were exhausted.
Eliminate fine risk before the inspection
EasyBGM shows exactly which obligations are outstanding before an authority asks.
Sources
Last updated: 2026-07-06. Not legal or tax advice — have your specific case reviewed by a professional.