Workstation evaluation means a process in the course of which work-related hazards are systematically identified and assessed. In case of need, action must be taken in order to eliminate these hazards. The findings of such evaluations have to be recorded in the so-called “Safety and Health Protection Documents” (see documentation pursuant to the Regulation relating to Documentation (Dokumentationsverordnung, DOK-VO). The legal mandate for carrying out such an evaluation is directed to employers, but they may delegate this task (however not the responsibility for the outcome) to an authorized representative. The person to whom this task is delegated may be, but need not necessarily be, a prevention expert. The law does not stipulate any specific training or qualifications for “evaluators”. A special obligation for evaluation exists under the Maternity Protection Act (Mutterschutzgesetz, MSchG) and the Act on the Protection of Children and Adolescents. Evaluation is primarily relevant in areas where the legislator has not defined any practical details but merely set protection objectives (i.e. appropriate, sufficient, etc.). See also the internet site www.eval.at. Also see: Performing Workstation Evaluations, External Evaluation Experts, Completion of Workstation Evaluation, Specific Evaluation Duties.
