[Comments on the revision of the Königstein instructional pamphlet]

The "Königsteiner Merkblatt (juris prudence)" is an instructional booklet of the general association of juris prudence involves accident insurance ("Hauptverband der gewerblichen Berufsgenossenschaften") in Germany. Medico-legal examinations of occupational noise-induced hearing loss are detailed. In contrast to prior editions, the 4th edition of this booklet, published in January 1996, has been extended by the definitions of legal regulations important for the physician in making medical decisions. Also the number of tests recommended for audiological investigation has been extended. The rules for estimating hearing disability and the calculation of individual handicaps have been changed, and the handicaps for complete deafness in one or both ears have been increased to 20% or 80%, respectively. The most important changes and extensions of the new edition are cited and discussed.