The COVID-19 pandemic exposed systemic vulnerabilities across societies and workplaces, underscoring the need for coordinated responses and long-term preparedness. In this context, seven European occupational health and safety (OSH) institutions collaboratively compiled lessons learnt from the pandemic, guided by a shared set of research questions developed by the PEROSH working group. This report presents Germany’s perspective, as prepared by BAuA, based on literature review and analysis.

It outlines the structure of the German OSH system and its legislative adaptations during the pandemic, with particular focus on workplace measures and testing, guidance, vaccination, and further infection prevention measures. The role of digitisation in enabling remote work and continuity of administration is highlighted. The report also examines (long-term) political, social, and technical effects, including regulatory changes and shifts in work practices.

Key findings point to the importance of strong OSH integration within organisations, the need to address inequalities in implementation, and the value of cooperation and adaptability during crises. Despite effective stakeholder collaboration and expert input, challenges such as limited preparedness, structural weaknesses, and supply shortages were evident. The report concludes with strategic recommendations for future crises and reflections on PEROSH's role moving forward.