INTERNATIONAL AUTUMN SCHOOL 2023: PRACTICAL APPROACHES TO OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY
International students explored workplace safety through collaborative projects and practical risk assessment.
The International Autumn School 2023 at the Faculty of Safety Engineering, VSB – Technical University of Ostrava, focused on occupational health and safety (OHS), workplace risk management and preventive measures. The programme brought together students from Instituto Politécnico do Porto, AP University of Applied Sciences and Arts Antwerp, and European University Cyprus, creating an international environment for knowledge sharing and collaboration.
The programme combined online theoretical preparation with intensive on-site learning in Ostrava. Using a project-based learning approach, students worked in international teams to develop their knowledge and practical skills in risk identification, assessment and management.
The practical projects covered two key areas. The first focused on workplace ergonomics, particularly manual handling, working postures and local physical workload. Students observed working conditions, identified potential risks and proposed measures to improve workplace safety and ergonomics.
The second addressed risks associated with forklift truck operations in warehouse environments. Students assessed potential hazards and proposed appropriate safety measures and secondary prevention strategies.
Practical activities took place both at the Faculty of Safety Engineering and in ABB's warehouse facilities, allowing students to apply their theoretical knowledge in a real working environment.
The Autumn School was organised within the Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programme (BIP), combining virtual learning with short-term physical mobility. In addition to developing professional competencies, the programme promoted international cooperation, intercultural exchange and teamwork.