Three standards, one system
Germany operates one of the most structured first aid frameworks in Europe, built around three DIN standards. They are frequently confused because the numbers are similar and the contents overlap, but each targets a distinct situation.
- DIN 13164: the motor vehicle standard
- DIN 13157: the small workplace kit
- DIN 13169: the large workplace kit (essentially two DIN 13157 kits combined)
Getting the right one matters. In Germany, light commercial vehicles are often treated as workplaces, which changes which standard applies. This guide explains each, then gives a simple decision rule.
HYSAVER can supply kits certified to DIN 13164, DIN 13157 and DIN 13169.
At a glance
| DIN 13164 | DIN 13157 | DIN 13169 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application | Motor vehicles | Workplace (small) | Workplace (large) |
| Typical setting | Cars, vans, trucks | Up to ~50 workers / lower risk | Larger or higher-risk sites |
| Relative size | Compact | Standard workplace box | ~2× DIN 13157 |
| Legal basis (DE) | Road traffic regulations (StVZO) | Workplace provision (ASR A4.3 / DGUV) | Workplace provision (ASR A4.3 / DGUV) |
| Recognised beyond Germany | Yes, EU-wide de facto vehicle standard | Mainly Germany | Mainly Germany |
Understanding each standard
DIN 13164: the vehicle standard
DIN 13164 defines the minimum first aid contents for a motor vehicle. It is mandatory for vehicles in Germany under road traffic rules and has become the de facto vehicle standard across the EU. Fleets operating in the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg use it as a recognised, inspector-accepted baseline.
It covers wound care, bandaging, protective gloves, a rescue blanket and basic tools, in a compact package sized for a vehicle. For a deeper look, see our dedicated article on DIN 13164 and commercial vehicle fleets.
DIN 13157: the small workplace kit
DIN 13157 is the standard German workplace first aid box (the familiar "kleiner Verbandkasten"). It contains a broader range of materials than the vehicle kit and larger quantities of each item, reflecting the wider variety of injuries expected on a staffed site.
It is the appropriate choice for many small to mid-sized workplaces and lower-risk operations. The exact requirement is set by workplace rules (ASR A4.3) and DGUV guidance, based on headcount and hazard level.
DIN 13169: the large workplace kit
DIN 13169 is effectively DIN 13157 doubled. It holds roughly twice the contents and is intended for larger workplaces or higher-risk environments where more people may need treatment before professional help arrives.
Where a single DIN 13157 kit is no longer adequate for the number of workers on site, DIN 13169 (or multiple DIN 13157 kits) becomes the requirement.
The German LCV rule: why vehicles need more
A critical point for fleet operators: in Germany, a light commercial vehicle used for work is often legally classified as a workplace, not merely a vehicle. When that is the case, the workplace standard (DIN 13157) can apply in addition to the mandatory vehicle standard (DIN 13164).
In practice this means a service van in Germany may need both a DIN 13164 kit for road-traffic compliance and DIN 13157 workplace provision for the people working out of it. DIN 13164 alone is frequently not sufficient.
Decision guide: which standard applies?
- A vehicle on German roads → DIN 13164 (mandatory).
- A vehicle used as a mobile workplace in Germany → DIN 13164 and DIN 13157.
- A small or lower-risk fixed workplace → DIN 13157.
- A large or higher-risk fixed workplace → DIN 13169 (or multiple DIN 13157 kits).
- A cross-border EU fleet → DIN 13164 as the common baseline, plus national workplace rules where vehicles count as workplaces.
Keeping kits compliant
Whichever standard applies, two rules hold across all of them. First, contents expire: sterile dressings, wipes and burn gel lose effectiveness over time, and an expired kit is non-compliant even if every item is present. Second, completeness is mandatory: after any use, the kit must be restocked to its full specification.
A fixed, visible mounting position and a monthly inspection routine solve most compliance failures before they start.
HYSAVER can supply kits certified to DIN 13164, DIN 13157 and DIN 13169, as well as the UK BS 8599 standards. For a Europe-wide comparison, see our guide to DIN and BS 8599 first aid standards.
Kits and replacement components are available at store.hysaver.com. Contact us to confirm which standard applies to your fleet and premises.
Questions or interested in HYSAVER? Get in touch.
