Learning to identify risks in good time, prevent workplace accidents and respond appropriately in the event of emergencies. With this aim in mind, 23 participants from universities in Iraq and Egypt, as well as from the Petroleum Engineering programme at the Faculty of Science, Palacký University, travelled to Olomouc. During the five-day summer school, they learnt the principles of health and safety and environmental protection in laboratories, in the field and in other scientific and technical facilities.
“The programme focused on identifying and assessing risks, moving safely around the workplace and the correct use of personal protective equipment. Participants also covered fire safety, first aid, the handling of waste and chemicals, laboratory safety, and procedures to follow in the event of accidents and other emergencies,” said Rebar Mahmmud, the summer school coordinator from the Department of Geology.
Safety in laboratories and research facilities
At the Department of Analytical Chemistry, participants gained an overview of the principles of health, safety and environmental protection in laboratory operations. They learnt how to handle chemicals safely, use laboratory equipment correctly, assess potential risks and prevent accidents during practical scientific work.
They also visited the Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine at the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University, where they had the opportunity to see how safety rules are applied in the day-to-day operations of a modern biomedical research facility. Staff at the institute introduced them to risk management methods, the organisation of laboratory work and procedures for dealing with emergencies.
The professional programme was complemented by joint activities
“The programme also included a field trip focusing on health, safety and environmental protection, group discussions, and a closing ceremony to award certificates. There were also social activities, such as a tour of Olomouc and a barbecue. Participants were thus able to link the knowledge they had gained to specific practical examples, whilst also establishing new contacts within the international academic community,” added Rebar Mahmmud.
The Health, Safety and Environment Summer School 2026 (HSE) took place at the Department of Geology, Faculty of Science. Eight participants from Knowledge University took part, along with four from Cihan University in Iraq, two from Cairo University in Egypt, and nine students and recent graduates of the Petroleum Engineering programme at the Department of Geology.