Developing an Applicable Curriculum for Occupational Health and Safety Professionals

Erasmus+ Vocational Education Project - KA202 Strategic Partnership

Project Number

2017-1-TR01-KA202-045736

Project Coordinator

Gaziantep University, Turkey

Project Partners

• University of Novo Mesto, Faculty of Health Sciences, Slovenia

• Federación Valenciana de Empresarios de la Construcción (FEVEC), Spain

• Wyższa Szkoła Biznesu i Nauk o Zdrowiu (WSBINOZ), Poland

• ARDA Beratung & Bildung GmbH, Germany

Project Links

• E-Learning Platform: MEPOHS

• Social Media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

Project Overview

Occupational health and safety (OHS) is a key component of EU social policy. Despite existing regulations, work-related accidents remain prevalent in certain sectors. Major challenges include inconsistent training approaches, lack of awareness, and unclear legal frameworks.

The goal of this project was to develop a practical, EU-compliant curriculum for occupational health and safety professionals. The curriculum aimed to:

• Improve the qualification of OHS professionals.

• Reduce workplace accidents.

• Support companies in complying with safety regulations.

• Integrate modern digital learning methods.

• Achieve long-term improvements in occupational safety.

Project Goals

A primary objective was to establish a standardized training program for OHS professionals. Through collaboration between OHS trainers and experts, the curriculum was designed to:

• Enhance the competency of professionals in the field.

• Equip students with practical, hands-on skills.

• Strengthen workplace safety measures.

Another key focus was analyzing and improving legal frameworks. The project examined OHS laws in partner countries, identified existing gaps, and developed policy recommendations to refine legislation.

Additionally, the project emphasized raising awareness about workplace safety, particularly for vulnerable groups such as refugees and asylum seekers. The objective was to prevent their exploitation in unsafe working conditions, promote ethical employment practices, and facilitate their social integration through secure job opportunities.

Project Context

While workplace accident rates in the EU have decreased since the 1990s, certain industries remain highly affected. Insufficient training, a lack of safety awareness, and inconsistent implementation of occupational safety standards present significant challenges.

With increasing labor mobility within the EU, the need for standardized OHS training has become more urgent. This project addressed that need by developing a unified curriculum aligned with international standards, supporting the effective enforcement of safety regulations.

Target Groups

The project targeted a range of stakeholders in occupational health and safety, including:

• University and vocational school lecturers & OHS trainers.

• Experienced occupational safety professionals.

• Engineers, architects, and technical experts specializing in OHS.

• Inspectors and government representatives responsible for workplace safety.

• Refugees and asylum seekers, promoting their integration into safe employment.

More than 30 OHS professionals were directly involved in the development and testing of the curriculum to ensure its practical applicability.

Project Components

A comprehensive needs analysis identified existing gaps in OHS education and legislation across partner countries. The study examined challenges in workplace safety, regulatory differences, and deficiencies in professional OHS training.

Based on these findings, a modular curriculum was developed in line with EU standards. It includes case studies, interactive learning methods, and simulation-based training, and can be adapted to different industries such as construction, healthcare, and manufacturing.

To enhance accessibility and flexibility, a digital learning platform was created. This platform provides online courses, webinars, discussion forums, and certification programs, offering cost-effective training opportunities.

Additionally, a mobile application was developed to provide real-time access to OHS guidelines, best practices, and training materials. The app also serves as a communication platform for experts and facilitates the reporting of safety incidents.

Project Partners & Their Contributions

• University of Novo Mesto led the scientific analysis and development of practical guidelines for OHS trainers.

• FEVEC integrated the curriculum into the construction and industrial sectors, supporting the implementation of OHS measures in companies.

• WSBINOZ adapted the program to higher education and vocational training systems and conducted pilot programs for students.

• ARDA Beratung & Bildung coordinated the development of the e-learning platform and mobile app, as well as the international networking of project partners.

Long-Term Impact

The project had lasting effects on OHS training, legislation, and workplace practices.

• Standardized OHS training across Europe – ensuring uniform qualifications and continuing education for OHS professionals.

• Reduction of workplace accidents – through well-trained professionals and better-informed workers.

• Digitalization of OHS training – offering flexible learning opportunities via the e-learning platform.

• Support for legal reforms – providing policy recommendations for improving occupational safety regulations.

• Protection of vulnerable workers – promoting safer working conditions for at-risk groups.

Conclusion

This project made a significant contribution to harmonizing OHS education in Europe. The developed curriculum remains a benchmark and continues to be used for the training of OHS professionals. The e-learning platform remains active, providing long-term access to high-quality training resources, while the mobile app helps professionals and companies implement up-to-date safety regulations.

This model can serve as a foundation for future international initiatives in occupational health and safety, further advancing the sustainable improvement of working conditions across the EU.