In the frame of the multi-center case-control study "German Spine Study EPILIFT", in which the dose-response relationship between occupational exposure to physical occupational loadings and lumbar diseases was investigated, the question will be discussed, in which occupations or economic sectors, respectively, patients are over-represented compared to the general population. With respect to the systematics of the (German) Federal Statistical Office, the occupation data of 915 cases with clinically diagnosed disc herniation or osteochondrosis in the lumbar spine and of 901 population controls (51±12 and 47±12 years of age, respectively, 884 men, 932 women) were analysed with regard to economic sectors, occupational sections and - in interesting categories - also to detailed occupational groups. The occupational history (occupation phases of at least six months) took place using standardised computer-assisted interviews. Individual's fob-specific years of exposure were cumulated and odds ratios (OR) for "ever worked" and "worked at least ten years" were analyzed (95% confidence interval CI). Results were standardized by age, gender and study centre. Among some of the economic sectors attributed to extended spinal load increased risks (OR ≥ 1.5) were found; among other sectors the risk is just below. In the sectors transport/ communication and construction industry (men, both OR = 1.5, CI 1.1-2.2 or 1.1-2.1, resp.) as well as in the hotel/ restaurant sector (women, OR = 1.6, CI 1.1-2.4), the results are statistically significant. In the category "occupational sections", increased risks were found among most, but not all of the groups considered as exposed; the results were statistically significant in the case of male traffic occupations (OR = 1.5, CI 1.1-2.2) and of female sale occupations (OR = 1.5, CI 1.1-2.0). Results appearing implausible were relativised by more detailed analysis (e.g. nurses, OR = 1.3). A time-related dose-response relationship (occupation for at least ten years) could also be verified in some, but not in all categories with a sufficient number of cases. Significant results were found only in male bus and truck drivers (OR = 1.9, CI 1.2-3.1). The results confirm increased risks in a couple of the occupations, which are well-known for being exposed to disc-related lumbar spine diseases from former epidemiological studies. The missing plausibility especially in several heterogeneous categories of occupational sections are leading to the conclusion that risk assessment based on occupational data should be as specifically as possible; those based on working activities and postures seem to be more reasonable.