The Difference Between ÇASMER and OSGB
Authorizing Institution
The most distinct difference between the two structures is the authorizing institution. Under Art.4 of the Regulation on Occupational Health and Safety Services, the Worker Health Center (ÇASMER) is authorized by the Ministry of Health, while the Joint Health and Safety Unit (OSGB) is authorized by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. This distinction determines the administrative framework each unit falls under and the supervision mechanism it is subject to.
Scope of Services
In terms of scope, the services that a ÇASMER and an OSGB may provide differ. ÇASMERs may provide workplace physician and other healthcare staff services by fulfilling the requirements of Article 12 of the regulation, with the exception of the occupational safety expert room requirement (Art.17/7).
If a ÇASMER wishes to provide the full range of occupational health and safety services, including occupational safety expert services, it must additionally fulfil the requirements of Articles 12 and 16. An OSGB, by the very purpose of its establishment, covers the full occupational health and safety service, including occupational safety expert services.
Comparison Table
| Criterion | ÇASMER | OSGB |
|---|---|---|
| Authorizing institution | Ministry of Health | Ministry of Labour and Social Security |
| Core service scope | Workplace physician + other healthcare staff | Full OHS (including occupational safety expert) |
| Occupational safety expert services | If Art.12 and Art.16 requirements are fulfilled | Included within its establishment scope |
| Occupational safety expert room requirement | Not required for core services (Art.17/7) | Required |
| Legal basis | Law No. 6331, Art.4, Art.17/7 | Law No. 6331, Art.4 |
Principles of Authorization and Supervision
The procedures and principles regarding the authorization and supervision of ÇASMERs are determined by a circular to be prepared jointly by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. For this reason, unlike an OSGB, which is subject solely to the regulation of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, a ÇASMER is a structure that operates within the joint framework of the two ministries.