BGV A3 / DGUV Regulation 3

From BGV A3 to DGUV Regulation 3

BGV A3 was the accident prevention regulation issued by the individual German trade associations (Berufsgenossenschaften). In 2014, the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) harmonised all such regulations under a unified numbering system. BGV A3 became DGUV Vorschrift 3 (DGUV Regulation 3). The content is substantively unchanged – most practitioners still use "BGV A3" as a shorthand.

Key Requirements for Employers

• Qualified electrician requirement: All electrical work must be performed by or under the direct supervision of an Elektrofachkraft (qualified electrician). This person must have recognised electrical training, current knowledge and practical experience relevant to the task.
• vEFK appointment: The employer must appoint a Verantwortliche Elektrofachkraft (vEFK) in writing. If no vEFK is appointed, the employer bears all responsibility directly.
• Equipment testing (§5): All portable electrical equipment must be regularly tested by an Elektrofachkraft. Frequency depends on use and environment (typically annually for office equipment; more frequently for workshop tools).
• Instruction and training: All employees must receive safety instruction before operating electrical equipment and whenever there is a change to procedures or equipment.

Relevance to HV Vehicle Work

DGUV 209-093 (HV vehicle qualifications) was developed within the framework established by DGUV Regulation 3. The connection is direct:

• HV vehicles are electrical equipment under the regulation – the general obligation to use qualified personnel applies
• The FHV qualification (Fachkundige Person Hochvolt) is a vehicle-specific extension of the Elektrofachkraft concept from DGUV Regulation 3
• The vEFK in an automotive workshop must ensure that all HV-qualified employees' certifications are current – including the annual HV briefing
• Documentation requirements from both regulations overlap: de-energisation test records and qualification records must both be maintained