Behavioural prevention

Behavioural prevention has the objective of assuring healthy structures (conditions) at work. Its purpose is that of creating safe and healthy workplaces by the avoidance of sources of hazards, by safe work equipment, and by the use of all conceivable safety facilities. It encompasses the organization of occupational safety and health, and the safe design of working equipment, working methods and work premises, including all machines, tools and other facilities.

Measures of particular importance in this context include the preference for tested and certified engineered work equipment. Testing and certification are conducted by the test bodies of the expert committees at the DGUV and the BGIA Institute for Occupational Safety. In the interests of behavioural prevention, safe use must also be assured during the selection and use of materials such as biological agents and chemicals.