New diseases in the occupational diseases list

02/18/2015

The Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs has included new diseases into the so-called occupational diseases list with effect from the beginning of the year. Affected parties are now entitled to improved benefits. On 1 January 2015, the 3rd Ordinance amending the Occupational Diseases Ordinance entered into force. Four more diseases have been added to the occupational diseases list:

- Laryngeal carcinoma due to intensive and multi-year exposure to sulfuric acid aerosols

- Pressure damage of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel (carpal tunnel syndrome) by repetitive manual activities with flexion and extension of the wrists, by increased effort of the hands or hand-arm vibrations

- Vascular damage of the hand due to impact force (Hypothenar-Hammer syndrome and Thenar-Hammer syndrome)

- Squamous cell carcinomas or multiple actinic keratoses of the skin due to natural UV radiation
The persons affected are now entitled to medical treatment from the statutory accident insurance. In the event of incapacity for work or permanent reduction in earning capacity, there may also be claims for cash benefits.

The updated list of occupational diseases can be found on the website of the Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA) at www.baua.de.