Understanding and shaping the transformation of work
The Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz and Arbeitsmedizin, BAuA) continuously monitors how the dynamic world of work is developing and how these changes affect employees’ safety and health. It conducts studies that generate recommendations for policymakers and practitioners. In this way, we help to shape the evolution of the world of work and occupational safety.
![Scientist presents study results using diagrams (© iStock | grki) Scientist presents study results using diagrams](https://www.baua.de/EN/Topics/Monitoring-evaluation/pics/Monitoring-Evaluation.jpg?__blob=normal&v=1)
By monitoring the world of work, BAuA analyses how social and technological change affects the manifold aspects work.
Cross-sectional surveys are used to gather data on structures, working times, workloads, and resources. Longitudinal studies capture changes over time. The results of these studies are important foundations for our activities highlighting scientifically based options for policymakers and recommending measures for practitioners.
Safely designed products are indispensable for safe working. Good monitoring consequently involves keeping track of safely designed work equipment. As part of our statutory functions, we therefore regularly publish information on dangerous products, support the authorities in the German federal states (Bundesländer) responsible for market surveillance, and help to improve the guidelines on product safety. The changes in the world of work also raise the question of whether the current OSH instruments and structures are effective and what adjustments need to be made. In the age of the home office, for example, it is questionable whether and how OSH can be effective outside of organisations’ premises and how employees can be involved. BAuA is overseeing the necessary efforts to further develop OSH provision all over Germany. It supports the Joint German Occupational Safety and Health Strategy (Gemeinsame Deutsche Arbeitsschutzstrategie) and administers the Office of the National Occupational Safety and Health Conference (Geschäftsstelle der Nationalen Arbeitsschutzkonferenz, NAK).