It is widely acknowledged that there is a general lack of OSH training in technical universities in Greece. If training is provided it usually consists of one-off OSH classes that are not compulsory. For that reason, the Hellenic Institute for Occupational Health and Safety (ELINYAE) regional branch in Western Greece, located in Ioannina, has begun to provide OSH training free of charge in the local university and technical schools. This ongoing programme began in April 2004 on a pilot basis. Initially university professors attended the training course along with their students. The professors’ training has triggered new OSH training initiatives for more technical specialities. A total of three hours’ training is held for each speciality. Each year a new programme is organised depending on the specific demands of technical schools. Technical school student training covers the following specialities: mechanical, electrical, plumbers, information technology and computer networks, beautician, hairdressers, technical works, agronomy and health and child care services, etc. The syllabus has a common core that includes basic legislation for employers and employees’ obligations and then for each specialty specific risks and OSH protection measures are presented. Increasingly, technical schools from other cities are applying for these courses. The curricula have been developed to meet the needs of each technical department through collaboration with the heads of the relevant departments in the technical schools.
Level of Education: Higher education, Continuing vocational education and training
Lead Organisation: Hellenic Institute for Occupational Health and Safety (ELINYAE)
