DGUV 201-056 for Building Operators: Which duties have changed since September 2025

Since its complete revision in September 2025, DGUV Information 201-056 has been the authoritative planning document for fall protection on roofs in Germany. It is not only aimed at roofers and fitters – it explicitly addresses building operators, owners, planners, and architects.

What the old version regulated – and why it is no longer sufficient

The previous version from 2015 essentially focused on anchor devices. Those who had such a point could, in many cases, refer to the standard.

That was sufficient for the reality at the time. Flat roofs were rarely accessed. Today, the situation is different: photovoltaic systems, green roofs, cooling units, ventilation systems – the roof has become a technical operating building. The new version responds to this with a holistic approach: instead of individual anchor points, the overall concept of the roof area is now in the foreground.

Equipment classes AK-A, AK-B, and AK-C

The most important new element is the equipment classes. They describe the level of fall protection required for a roof area – depending on the intensity of use, frequency of maintenance, type of activities, and the group of people accessing the roof.

AK-A (highest requirement) applies to areas with frequent use or public access. Typical measures: permanent railings, collective fall protection, safe traffic routes. AK-B applies to regular maintenance work by specialist personnel. AK-C applies to areas with infrequent use by instructed persons.

What this means for building operators

Building operators whose roofs are regularly worked on have a planning responsibility under the new DGUV 201-056 that goes beyond the mere procurement of anchor points. Specifically: existing roof areas must be assessed. Protection concepts must be documented in writing. Permanent systems must be regularly inspected – recommended every 24 months. For PV systems, maintenance safety must be considered during the planning phase.

The new standard EN 17235 replaces EN 795 for fixed systems

EN 17235 replaces EN 795 for fixed anchor devices. Only mobile systems (temporary anchor points) continue to fall under EN 795. This brings new requirements for testing procedures, terminology, and documentation.

Existing installations: Does everything have to be retrofitted immediately?

No – DGUV Information is not a legal regulation, but a technical rule. However, it has considerable practical effect: in the event of damage, it is used as a benchmark for the state of the art. Those with existing installations that complied with the old requirements should carry out an assessment and develop a plan of action.

Fall protection systems at Gerüstexpress

At Gerüstexpress, building operators, planners, and maintenance companies will find standard-compliant systems for fall protection on flat roofs – temporary and permanent. The product range includes free-standing roof edge protection systems and mobile anchor points according to EN 795. The team is available for advice via the contact page.

Frequently asked questions

Is DGUV 201-056 legally binding?

No, it is a technical rule without direct legal force. However, in the event of damage, it is used as a benchmark for the state of the art.

What happens if I don't adapt my existing assets?

There are no immediate sanctions. In the event of damage, deviations from the current state of the art can have liability and criminal law consequences.

Where can I find the official DGUV 201-056?

The full version is available for free download on the websites of DGUV (publikationen.dguv.de) and BG BAU.