Accidents
Workers’ compensation covers workplace accidents, commuting accidents, and occupational diseases. Premiums for workers’ compensation are paid solely by the employer. The amount depends on the risk classification. For temporary workers, it is the staffing agency—not the host company—that is responsible for registering them with the workers’ compensation association.
Employers must register employees with the accident insurance program when they begin work. All employees are insured through the employers’ liability insurance association against accidents that occur while working or while commuting to or from work. Insurance coverage applies to full-time and part-time employees, those in marginal employment, those in “mini-jobs,” and interns. This applies regardless of income level, age, nationality, or place of residence. Even if an employee resides abroad, this does not affect coverage. Insurance coverage begins on the first day of employment.
In the event of a workplace accident, the employee must see a designated physician—known as a “Durchgangsarzt” (or “D-Arzt”)—and report the accident to them. Employers must record the accident in the accident log and report it to the employers’ liability insurance association. If the employee is on sick leave following the accident, they are entitled to injury benefits.