INTENSIVE SAFETY WEEK 2026: CONNECTING SAFETY EXPERTS FROM NINE COUNTRIES
From 4 to 8 May 2026, the Faculty of Safety Engineering at VSB – Technical University of Ostrava hosted the second edition of Intensive Safety Week, bringing together academics, researchers, and students from nine countries: the Czech Republic, Poland, Portugal, Latvia, Mexico, Kosovo, the Netherlands, Canada, and Italy.
A distinctive feature of the 2026 edition was its focus on emerging safety challenges, particularly hydrogen technologies, alternative fuels, environmental protection, and crisis management. The programme combined expert lectures and parallel thematic sessions with laboratory tours, networking activities, and visits to regional landmarks, connecting scientific knowledge with practical experience.
EMERGING CHALLENGES AND INTERNATIONAL EXPERTISE
The programme explored a wide range of topics, from ergonomics and human factors to wildfire prevention, water management, and inherently safer design. Particular attention was given to the safety of hydrogen technologies and alternative energy sources, reflecting their growing importance in future energy systems.
Participants also exchanged perspectives on the development of safety practices, including a lecture by Frank Guldenmund from TU Delft on four decades of safety development and a session on process safety and alternative fuels featuring experts from the University of Bologna and VSB-TUO. Visits to Raduň Castle and the industrial heritage site Dolní oblast Vítkovice offered additional opportunities for informal networking and cultural exchange.
Strengthening Research and Educational Partnerships
Intensive Safety Week 2026 provided a platform for sharing expertise, developing international partnerships, and exploring opportunities for joint research, grant funding, and Erasmus+ projects. An important contribution came from CESAR – Centre of Excellence for Safety Research, supported by the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme through the ERA Chair scheme.
The second edition reaffirmed the Faculty of Safety Engineering’s commitment to international cooperation and its role in connecting researchers, students, and professionals to address current and future safety challenges.