This section in the Exposure and Risk Assessment Department maintains the GESTIS substance database, the GESTIS biological agents database and the Information system for safety data sheets - ISi. In addition, the unit cooperates in consultations with the German social accident insurance institutions and in projects on special topics concerning hazardous substances.
Logo of GESTIS database
Source: IFA
GESTIS substance database
www.dguv.de/ifa/gestis-database
The GESTIS substance database contains information (PDF, 228 kB) on the hazards related to approximately 8800 substances. The substance data sheets contain the following information:
The data is constantly supplemented and updated. Changes in classification, threshold limit values or other regulatory standards are recorded immediately and the occupational protection data is adjusted in conformity to regulations. Free and unlimited access to the GESTIS substance database is available via the internet.
Logo of GESTIS biological agents database
Source: IFA
The GESTIS biological agents database contains information for safe activities with biological agents at the workplace, e.g. the required technical, organisational and personal protection measures in the case of specific activities in laboratories, biotechnology and the husbandry of laboratory animals. It also supplies information on important properties of the various biological agents, e.g. their occurrence and pathogenic properties. It contains data on about 15000 biological agents. Information on activities in other sectors where biological agents may possibly occur (so-called "non-specific" activities, e.g. litter service or waste water industry) can be found in non-specific activity data sheets.
Logo of ISi database
Source: ISi
ISi – Information system for safety data sheets
www.dguv.de/ifa/isi
The information system for safety data sheets arose from a cooperative venture with the VCI (Association of the Chemicals Industry in Germany) to provide product information in the form of a database for safety data sheets (PDF, 24 kB).
The ISi database is a continuously expanding up-to-date data pool where safety relevant data on chemical products can be obtained on short notice.
The database offers assistance with prevention, hazards assessment, searching for substitute substances, preparations for measuring hazardous substances and measures for reducing exposure; the database also helps to produce instruction policies and to instruct employees. The safety data sheets also serve as the basis for emergency response plans, for providing protective measures, for disposal and storage instruction, for transportation rules and first aid measures.
The archive of safety data sheets also offers first indications for research in case of occupational disease.
The ISi database can be accessed by:
A small section of the safety data sheets is available to all users free of charge.
On further Internet sites information is given to the legal bases of the safety data sheet as well as notes for their production and answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs).