Lviv hosts meaningful safety training

A three-day intensive training course on risk management during work near underground utilities and in confined spaces was held from May 12 to 14, 2025, at the Lviv State University of Life Safety.

The event was organized by the European Society of Occupational Safety and Health (ESOSH), the Occupational Safety and Health Journal, and the Construction Workers’ Union of Ukraine, with support from international partners from the UK, including SRM Ltd (Safety Risk Management), Circular OSH Collective, IIRSM (International Institute of Risk & Safety Management), and the One Percent Safer Foundation.

The practical format of the training included case studies, practical exercises, and simulation of real-world scenarios. The sessions were led by experienced trainers Ian Harper and Alex Hitch. The program covered two key areas:

1.Risk Management during work near underground utilities:

• legislative requirements (including HSG47, CDM regulations);
• risk identification using blueprints and on-site assessment;
• safe work planning and emergency response;
• permit-to-work systems and job planning.

2. Work in Confined Spaces (based on ILO, OSHA, and EBRD standards)

• identifying confined spaces and assessing toxic exposure risks;
• use of gas detectors, personal protective equipment (PPE);
• entry permit systems, case analysis, and participant certification.

The training was attended by faculty members from Ukrainian higher education institutions, heads of occupational safety services at critical infrastructure facilities, representatives of the State Labor Service, the Construction Workers’ Union, and others. This was the second training of its kind hosted by the Lviv State University of Life Safety, thanks to the active engagement of international partners who not only share best practices but also provide humanitarian aid in the form of modern safety equipment and instruments. These contributions significantly enhance the practical training of future OSH professionals.

To express appreciation and with hope for continued collaboration, University Rector Major General Dmytro Bondar presented the trainers, Ian Harper and Alex Hitch, with traditional embroidered shirts (vyshyvankas).

            As part of the Science Day celebrations in Ukraine on May 15, the university also hosted two national scientific-practical conferences: the 5th All-Ukrainian conference of educators and OSH practitioners “Occupational safety: education and practice,” and the 15th All-Ukrainian conference for cadets, students, postgraduates, and adjuncts “Challenges and prospects of OSH development.”

Editorial Team

Lviv hosts meaningful safety training

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