Occupational safety and hygiene in the laboratory – principles, risks, and solutions

Occupational health and safety (OHS) in the laboratory is a key element of the functioning of every research and control facility. Regardless of the sector, whether it is the chemical, pharmaceutical, food, cosmetics, detergent, mining, metallurgical, biotechnology industries, biobanks, forensics, automotive, research institutes, scientific institutions, or the defence industry, laboratories must meet strict OHS standards to protect employees and ensure the reliability of results. This article discusses the most important OHS principles in laboratory settings, the typical risks associated with laboratory work, and the organisational and technological solutions that support safe and hygienic working conditions. It presents the hazards occurring in different types of laboratories, how to prevent them, why OHS training and safety culture are crucial, and which modern technologies help enhance safety in laboratory environments.

Key OHS principles in laboratories across various industries

The fundamental OHS principles in a laboratory form the foundation of safe work, regardless of whether one works in a chemical, biological, forensic, or industrial laboratory. The most important rules include the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (protective clothing, gloves, goggles, filtering masks), maintaining order and cleanliness in the workplace, proper labelling and storage of substances and equipment, and adhering to the prohibition of consuming food and drinks within the laboratory area.

Equally important is the development and implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to the safe execution of laboratory activities. Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) highlights the importance of standardised working methods, proper facility design, and well-organised workflows. This increases personnel safety and ensures high quality and reliability of test results, which is essential in regulated environments such as pharmaceutical laboratories or scientific institutes.

In the Polish context, labour law requires laboratories to comply with general OHS regulations as well as detailed industry-specific requirements. Every employee must be provided with safe and hygienic working conditions. This right is guaranteed by the Labour Code and related legislation. Laboratories should have an up-to-date OHS manual, instructions for handling hazardous materials, and be equipped with necessary safety tools (first aid kits, fire extinguishers, safety showers, eye wash stations, etc.). An important organisational requirement is to restrict access to laboratory rooms to authorised individuals only. In high-risk laboratories, such as microbiological or military facilities, only trained personnel may enter, and doors and reagent cabinets must be locked. In addition, every chemical reagent or biological preparation must be properly labelled (unlabelled substances may not be used) and stored in appropriate conditions, in quantities limited to those necessary for ongoing tasks. Adhering to these basic OHS principles, from the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) to proper workstation organisation, forms the first line of defence against accidents and hazards in the laboratory.

What are the most common chemical, biological, mechanical and equipment related hazards?

Laboratory work involves a wide range of risks to the health and life of personnel. These can be divided into several main categories: chemical hazards, biological hazards, physical and mechanical hazards, and hazards related to the operation of equipment and instruments. Their severity and nature often depend on the laboratory profile. Different risks are encountered in a chemical or metallurgical laboratory than in a microbiological laboratory, yet awareness of each of them is essential in every sector and at every position.

Chemical hazards: Laboratories in the chemical, pharmaceutical, cosmetics and food industries often work with substances that may be toxic, corrosive, flammable or explosive. Contact with such reagents poses a risk of burns to the skin or eyes, poisoning (acute and chronic), and even serious diseases as a result of inhalation exposure. Everyday risks include, for example, accidental spillage of a corrosive acid, splashing a hazardous reagent into the eyes or inhaling toxic solvent vapours. The consequences include both chemical burns to the skin and permanent eye damage, as well as damage to the respiratory tract or loss of the sense of smell due to the effects of certain volatile compounds.

Moreover, improper handling of reactive mixtures or flammable materials creates a risk of fire or violent explosion in the laboratory. For example, in forensic laboratories working with explosives or in facilities of the defence industry (for instance in the analysis of pyrotechnic materials), there is a particular risk of detonation if strict safety procedures are not followed. This is why it is so important that every experiment with chemical substances is carried out with the utmost care, under a functioning fume hood when working with volatile toxins, in chemical resistant protective clothing, after prior risk assessment and preferably in the presence of a second person.

Biological hazards: In biotechnological, medical, food laboratories or biobanks, daily work involves cultures of microorganisms, human or animal material and samples that may contain pathogenic agents. Biological hazards include bacteria, viruses, fungi, biological toxins and even cell cultures or genetic material. The consequence of carelessness may be infection of personnel. Occupational laboratory infections have been described in the literature for more than a century and have included, among others, typhoid fever, cholera, brucellosis, tetanus, and in later years also tuberculosis. The source of risk may be both the microorganisms themselves (capable of causing serious infectious diseases) and biological material containing, for example, blood (risk of HBV, HCV, HIV viruses) or tissues. Infection may occur via various routes, such as inhalation of aerosols containing microorganisms, contact with skin and mucous membranes, accidental puncture with a contaminated needle or breaking of skin continuity, and even by the oral route. In laboratories of the food or cosmetics industry, there is also the risk of development of microorganisms that cause product spoilage or produce harmful metabolites. Therefore, biological laboratories require specific procedures. Biological safety levels (BSL-1 to BSL-4) define the degree of containment and precautions depending on the pathogen, and personnel must strictly follow rules of asepsis, disinfection and proper disposal of infectious waste.

Mechanical and physical hazards: Daily work with equipment and laboratory glassware carries the risk of mechanical injuries. Cuts caused by sharp elements, broken glass, needles and scalpel blades are quite common in laboratories (not only chemical ones) and may lead to lacerations or puncture wounds. Injuries can also occur due to tripping over equipment components or bumping into protruding elements of the furnishings. Electric shock is another hazard, especially when working with high voltage equipment (for example electrophoresis, UV devices, electron microscopes). Faulty insulation or improper handling may result in an electric shock and burns.

In industrial and automotive laboratories where machinery is used (for example ball mills for grinding samples, presses, mechanical stirrers, high speed centrifuges), there is a risk of accidents involving moving parts. Parts of the body or clothing may become caught in the device, leading to serious injuries, fractures, crushing or amputations. Even in typical analytical laboratories, centrifuges pose a risk: imbalance or malfunction can lead to sudden rotor failure. Working with pressurised gas cylinders is also associated with hazards. Improperly secured cylinders may fall and damage the valve, which in turn creates the risk of uncontrolled gas release or even dangerous "launching" of the cylinder.

In the physical category, radiation and physical factors must also be mentioned. Some research laboratories use sources of ionising radiation (for example X ray equipment for crystallography, radioactive materials in nuclear laboratories), which requires strict adherence to radiation protection regulations in order to prevent staff exposure. More common, however, are devices emitting non ionising radiation, such as lasers (for example in spectroscopy, flow cytometry) or UV lamps (for example for sterilisation). A strong laser beam can irreversibly damage eyesight, particularly because the operator's eyes are most at risk. Laser radiation of certain wavelengths focused on the retina may cause severe photochemical and thermal burns leading to loss of vision. Laser accidents most often result from a lack of proper protective glasses or from the use of defective equipment shields.

Noise generated by some devices (for example ultrasonic homogenisers, mills) can damage hearing during prolonged exposure, and work with liquid nitrogen or dry ice carries the risk of frostbite as well as hypoxia in the event of oxygen being displaced by evaporated gas.

Ergonomics also plays an important role: forced posture at a microscope, repetitive tasks, shift work that disturbs circadian rhythm or stress related to responsibility and time pressure may increase the risk of accidents.

It is worth emphasising that most of the hazards listed can be prevented or their effects minimised through appropriate preventive measures and adherence to rules. Below we discuss proven technical and organisational solutions in this area.

Effective preventive and organisational measures

Safety in the laboratory is based on a multilayered approach: combining technical, organisational and individual measures in order to reduce risk. Preventive measures can be divided into several categories:

Engineering (technical) control: This means using technical solutions that eliminate or reduce exposure to hazardous factors at the source. Examples include ventilation and exhaust systems. Every chemical laboratory should be equipped with a properly functioning fume hood under which work with volatile toxins or substances with intense odour is carried out.

Modern fume hoods ensure effective removal of harmful vapours and dusts thanks to advanced ventilation and filtration systems (for example HEPA and carbon filters that capture particles and chemical vapours). They have tight protective sashes that create a physical barrier between the user and hazardous substances, and mechanisms controlling airflow, sensors and alarms that indicate irregularities in ventilation performance. With such solutions, the risk of exposure to toxic vapours is minimised and personnel can work more safely and comfortably. Other examples of engineering controls include biological safety cabinets (laminar flow cabinets) in microbiological laboratories, which protect both samples and workers from contamination; guards and shields on machines that protect against glass fragments or broken rotating parts; interlocks and emergency stop switches on mechanical devices; gas detection systems for hazardous gases in rooms; automatic sprinkler systems and fire detectors for early fire detection. Care for infrastructure is also important, for example local exhausts, efficient air conditioning, appropriate lighting of workstations (to prevent eye strain) and non slip flooring to avoid falls.

Personal protective equipment (PPE): Even the best equipment cannot replace the personal protection of the worker. Anyone entering the laboratory should be equipped with protective clothing suited to the hazards: a lab coat or coverall (often flame retardant or acid resistant in chemical laboratories), disposable or specialised gloves (for example nitrile gloves resistant to chemicals, heat protective gloves for working with hot objects, anti vibration gloves for working with noisy equipment), glasses or goggles that protect the eyes from splashes and UV radiation, and a face shield where necessary.

In cases of inhalation exposure, masks or half masks with appropriate filters are used (for example organic vapour cartridges, P3 filters for biological particles). It is crucial that personal protective equipment is properly selected and certified, meets standards and is used in accordance with instructions.

Employees should be trained in how to correctly put on and remove gloves, how to check mask filter performance, and so on. PPE is the last barrier between the hazard and the worker, so it must not be underestimated. Even briefly removing safety glasses may result in a serious eye injury in the event of unanticipated contact with a substance.

Organisation of work and procedures: Good organisation is just as important as technical solutions. This includes, among other things, introducing clear procedures for normal and emergency situations and ensuring that all staff follow them.

Before starting work with a new substance or device, an employee should familiarise themselves with the documentation, for example safety data sheets (SDS), which describe hazards and precautions.

The laboratory should apply a double check principle for critical operations, for example important calculations of concentrations, sample labelling or starting expensive instruments. It is recommended that a second person verify the correctness of these tasks, especially in pharmaceutical and forensic laboratories.

Risk assessment for workstations is essential: identifying hazards associated with given activities and implementing appropriate protective measures. The employer is obliged to document such an assessment and update it, for example when new substances or technologies are introduced.

Proper organisation also means order and discipline: reagents should be stored in designated, labelled areas (for example separate cabinets for acids, bases, flammable materials, often with mechanical ventilation), hazardous waste should be regularly removed to marked containers.

The "clean desk" rule, that is leaving only the necessary materials at the workstation, reduces the risk of accidentally knocking over samples or making a mistake.

Preparing for emergencies is crucial. The laboratory must be equipped with safety showers, eye wash stations, first aid kits and fire fighting equipment, and staff should know their locations and how to use them. OHS instructions must include response procedures for scenarios such as substance spills, fire, electric shock or cuts. Supervision and responsibility: Effective OHS requires ongoing oversight of compliance with rules. In larger institutions there is an OHS service or designated specialist who monitors working conditions, conducts safety audits and provides advice on protective measures.

However, responsibility for safety rests with everyone. Supervisors must enforce rules (for example not allowing people without protective clothing to work) and employees should report any observed irregularities and potentially dangerous situations. Regular technical inspections of equipment are an important element of prevention: laboratory machines, pressure devices and gas and electrical installations must be periodically checked and serviced to detect damage that could lead to accidents.

The importance of training and safety culture

The best procedures and equipment will not be effective without the right attitude among people. This is why OHS training and shaping a safety culture in the laboratory team are key to maintaining safe working conditions on a daily basis.

Every person starting work in a laboratory must undergo initial OHS training that covers both general regulations and the specifics of a given laboratory (so called on the job training). During training, the employee learns about hazards, protection methods, emergency response procedures and their own duties and rights.

However, education does not end there. Regular refresher training (for example once a year or every two years) is necessary to update knowledge, introduce new hazards and procedures and help eliminate bad habits that arise from routine. In dynamic sectors where new technologies and substances appear, keeping knowledge up to date is absolutely essential. For example, a biotechnological laboratory that introduces work with a new pathogen must train staff in appropriate biosafety procedures (for example additional measures at BSL 3 or 4), while a quality control department in a pharmaceutical plant that implements a new analytical system should train employees in the safe operation of that equipment.

Safety culture, however, is more than formal training. It is a set of values, beliefs and everyday habits that guide staff. Building it starts with management: supervisors should lead by example and consistently enforce rules. A visible attitude of leaders (for example wearing safety glasses, reacting to irregularities) reinforces the belief that safety is a real priority. Employees should understand that OHS rules exist and that they serve their safety, not "bureaucracy". Open communication helps with this: discussing incidents, including so called near misses, drawing conclusions and implementing improvements without blaming individuals. Encouraging the team to report hazards or suggestions for improving procedures, and importantly, responding to these reports, increases the sense of shared responsibility for safety.

Routine is one of the most common sources of errors. Many tasks in laboratories are repetitive, which can reduce vigilance. Reminding staff of the need to consistently follow rules helps minimise risk. Regular drills and emergency exercises (for example simulations of chemical spills or fire evacuations) help reinforce appropriate reactions and prepare staff for real crisis situations. Safety culture also means caring for new employees and trainees. They should be properly introduced and at first work under the supervision of a mentor so that they do not make dangerous mistakes due to lack of experience.

To sum up, training provides knowledge and safety culture ensures that this knowledge is applied in practice every day. Only by combining both elements can a state be achieved in which OHS rules are genuinely observed and the number of accidents reduced to a minimum.

Modern technological solutions that support OHS in the laboratory

Modern laboratories are increasingly turning to innovative technologies that not only streamline work but also significantly improve safety. Digitalisation and automation of laboratory processes play a major role here, eliminating the human factor from some hazardous activities or providing tools for better monitoring of working conditions.

IT systems (LIMS): In laboratory work management, LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) solutions are helpful. Although they are mainly associated with data and sample management, their impact on OHS is tangible. LIMS systems make it possible, among other things, to track expiry dates and stock levels of reagents. The system will warn against using an expired substance that might decompose into dangerous products (for example diethyl ether forming peroxides). LIMS also facilitates the management of safety data sheets. Staff have quick access to information on the hazards of a given substance and recommended precautions. It is also possible to link LIMS with an OHS training module: the system will remind employees about the need for refresher training or renewal of certificates before allowing them to perform certain tasks (for example operating an autoclave). Finally, in the event of an incident, LIMS can support its analysis by providing a complete history of work with a given material or instrument.

Automation and robotics: Tasks that present the highest risk to humans are increasingly being entrusted to automated devices and laboratory robots. Automation not only increases efficiency and repeatability of work but above all reduces the direct exposure of staff to hazardous factors.

Examples include laboratory robots that handle chemical reagents: automatic pipettors and dispensers can prepare reaction mixtures without direct human exposure to hazardous substances. In chemical laboratories there are robotic systems for chemical synthesis or sample sorting, enclosed in housings that provide isolation from harmful factors. In industrial, metallurgical or mining laboratories, heavy and dangerous tasks (for example hot furnaces, corrosive acids) can be handled by manipulators or robotic arms, which eliminates the risk of burns and other injuries to workers.

Automatic analysers are often equipped with safety systems. For example, biochemical analysers have built in shields that protect against accidental contact with reagents or moving parts, and laboratory centrifuges will not start if the lid is not closed and will automatically stop in the event of imbalance. Such safety features in modern equipment significantly reduce the risk of accidents and protect both staff and instruments.

Work environment monitoring (IoT): The Internet of Things has also entered the OHS area. Laboratories are equipped with networks of sensors that monitor environmental parameters and equipment status in real time. Gas sensors (for example detectors for solvent vapours, ammonia, hydrogen sulphide, etc.) can quickly alert staff to dangerous concentrations before humans are able to smell them. Fire detectors installed directly in fume hoods or chemical cabinets can detect smoke or sudden temperature rise at an early stage. Modern laboratory fume hoods are fitted with sensors for toxic gases and alarm systems that monitor airflow. In the event of ventilation failure or exceeding the permissible concentration of a substance, the system immediately informs staff and can automatically increase fan flow or interrupt device operation.

In laboratories using liquid nitrogen, oxygen sensors are installed that alert staff to the risk of suffocation (drop in O₂ concentration in the air). All these devices can be linked into an intelligent OHS monitoring system that sends alerts to employees' smartphones or to a central control panel. This makes the response to potential hazards faster and more effective.

Modern protective equipment: Innovations also apply to protective equipment. There are intelligent safety glasses with coatings that automatically darken when strong UV or laser light is detected, protecting eyesight even when the user forgets to choose the correct filter. Wearable smart sensors are available that measure, for example, the level of noise or vibration to which a technician is exposed during the working day and alert them when the level approaches the limit of a safe dose. In chemical laboratories, contactless dispensers and pipettes are used, eliminating the need for mouth pipetting (which is strictly prohibited). Modern models are often electronic, precise and ergonomic, which improves safety and comfort at work. Even simple elements such as safety showers or fire extinguishers are being improved. There are showers with automatic alarms that inform others when they are activated so that colleagues can immediately provide assistance, and fire extinguishers with sensors that indicate their use or need for servicing.

VR training and mobile applications: Modern technologies are also used in OHS training. VR (Virtual Reality) simulators are becoming increasingly popular and allow staff to practice dangerous situations in a virtual laboratory, for example dealing with a solvent explosion or responding to a chemical accident, without exposing them to real danger. Realistic simulation helps memorise correct reactions better than a traditional paper manual.

Mobile applications can act as a handy OHS assistant. For example, after scanning a reagent's QR code they can display pictograms and precautions or remind staff of a checklist before starting an experiment ("have you put on safety glasses?", "is the fume hood on?"). Such digital support is becoming standard in so called Laboratory 4.0 environments, where safety is an integral part of an automated working environment.

Implementing modern solutions requires investment and training, but it brings measurable benefits: it reduces the number of incidents, enables faster responses to hazards and improves comfort and safety culture at work. Technology is constantly evolving, offering laboratories increasingly effective tools, from intelligent monitoring systems to advanced protective equipment.

Experts emphasise, however, that even in the most automated environment, humans remain the key element of the safety system. New technologies should therefore support, not replace, common sense, caution and employee responsibility.

Summary

• Basic OHS rules in the laboratory, such as the use of protective clothing and equipment, maintaining cleanliness and order, proper labelling of substances and the prohibition of eating in the lab, apply to all types of laboratories and form the foundation of safe work.

• Laboratories in different sectors (chemical, pharmaceutical, food, cosmetics, biotechnological, forensic, industrial, etc.) encounter various hazards. The most common include chemical factors (corrosive and toxic substances, risk of fire or explosion), biological factors (pathogens, infectious material), physical factors (noise, radiation, temperature) and mechanical factors (cuts from glass, injuries caused by equipment, electric shock).

• Effective OHS prevention includes technical measures (fume hoods, ventilation, machine guards, sensors), organisational measures (procedures, instructions, risk assessment, maintaining order) and individual measures (personal protective equipment tailored to the hazards). The proper combination of these elements minimises the risk of accidents in the laboratory.

• OHS training (initial and periodic) is essential so that employees know the current safety rules, can recognise hazards and respond appropriately. Continuous awareness raising and building a safety culture, through management engagement, open communication and leading by example, results in fewer incidents and better organisation of work.

• Modern safety technologies include, among others, IT systems (LIMS) that support compliance with procedures, automation and robots that replace people in dangerous tasks, networks of sensors and alarms that monitor working conditions in real time, as well as innovative protective equipment (intelligent shields, wearable sensors) and VR based training. Implementing such solutions significantly raises the level of OHS in the laboratory.

• Compliance with OHS regulations is not only a legal requirement but also an investment in the quality of research and the operational efficiency of the laboratory. Safe working conditions lead to lower sickness absence, higher staff motivation and better protection of equipment and the environment against failures and contamination.

• Regardless of the sector, laboratory safety should be treated as a priority, through continuous improvement of procedures, staff education and the use of available technical tools, so that every working day ends without accidents and the laboratory achieves its scientific or production goals in a safe way and in line with occupational hygiene principles.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions and Answers)

What are the basic OHS rules in the laboratory?

The basic rules of occupational health and safety in the laboratory include: using personal protective equipment (goggles, gloves, lab coat, masks, etc.), knowing and following instructions and procedures for handling substances and equipment, proper labelling and storage of chemicals, keeping the workstation tidy and a strict ban on eating, drinking and smoking in laboratory areas. It is also important to restrict access to the laboratory to authorised, trained personnel only and to react immediately to any irregularities (for example damaged equipment or a spilled substance).

What are the most common hazards in the laboratory?

In the laboratory, various hazards can occur. The most common include chemical hazards (for example contact of skin or eyes with corrosive acids and bases, inhalation of toxic solvent vapours, risk of fire or explosion of flammable liquids and gases), biological hazards (for example infection resulting from contact with bacteria, viruses or infectious material, cuts with a contaminated needle), mechanical and physical hazards (cuts from sharp tools or glass, thermal burns when working with burners and autoclaves, injuries caused by moving parts of equipment such as centrifuges and stirrers, and electric shock from instruments), as well as hazards related to equipment (harmful UV or laser radiation that can damage eyesight, noise from ultrasonic devices, high pressure in gas cylinders and reactors). Factors related to ergonomics (for example back pain from long periods in one position) and stress, which indirectly affect safety, must not be forgotten either.

What should be done in the event of an accident in the laboratory (for example chemical spill or burn)?

In the event of an accident, it is important to stay calm and immediately take appropriate action in line with OHS procedures. If a dangerous substance is spilled, appropriate gloves should be put on and the spill neutralised or covered with an absorbent agent (in accordance with the instructions for that reagent), the area should be marked and secured from access by other people and the incident reported to the supervisor. In the case of chemical burns to the skin or eyes, the affected area must be rinsed immediately with clean, lukewarm water for at least 10 to 15 minutes (for the eyes it is best to use an eye wash station), contaminated clothing should be removed and medical assistance sought if the burn is serious. In the case of electric shock, the power source must first be disconnected (without touching the injured person with bare hands), then first aid should be provided and an ambulance called. Every accident must be recorded in the accident register and its causes analysed in order to implement preventive measures for the future. Important: always follow the principle of your own safety, do not expose yourself while giving help, use available protective equipment and call for support when the situation requires it.

Why are regular OHS trainings in the laboratory important?

Regular OHS training is crucial because it refreshes and updates employees' knowledge of hazards and safe working practices. Regulations and technologies are constantly changing, new devices, substances and legal requirements appear, so periodic training ensures that staff stay up to date. Training helps to shape correct habits, reminds staff of rules that may have been pushed into the background over time and corrects any unsafe practices before they lead to an accident. In addition, real incidents and case studies are often discussed during training, which increases hazard awareness. An employee who understands why OHS procedures are needed is more likely to follow them. Regular training also builds a safety culture, showing that the company or employer cares about the health of the staff, which in turn motivates employees to look after themselves and their colleagues in everyday work.

How do modern technologies increase safety in the laboratory?

Modern technologies provide many solutions that improve OHS in the laboratory. For example, sensors and alarm systems can continuously monitor environmental conditions. If a dangerous gas is released in the laboratory or ventilation fails, the system will immediately warn staff before the concentration becomes dangerous. Automation of tasks eliminates direct human contact with hazardous factors: robots can dispense corrosive chemicals and automatic analysers can work with infectious material inside closed housings, which protects employees from exposure. IT systems such as LIMS help ensure that procedures are followed, for example they will not allow a test report to be generated until safety related steps have been confirmed, or they will remind staff of the required protective equipment for a given experiment. There are also technological innovations in protective equipment: smart glasses that filter harmful radiation or garments with sensors that detect chemical contamination. All these technologies act as additional "eyes and ears" in the laboratory, reducing the risk of human error and speeding up responses to hazards. However, it is important to remember that even the best technology cannot replace common sense and basic safety rules. It should be seen as support for a knowledgeable, well trained workforce.

How can safety culture be built within a laboratory team?

Building a safety culture is a process that requires the involvement of the entire team, from management to new technicians. Above all, such a culture develops when safety is treated as a priority at every level: managers and supervisors must lead by example (for example by personally following procedures and reacting to unsafe behaviour) and regularly communicate the importance of OHS. It is important to create an atmosphere in which employees are not afraid to report observed hazards, faults or so called near miss situations. Such reports should be treated seriously and with appreciation rather than as "creating problems". It is worth organising regular team meetings dedicated to OHS, where new procedures, audit results or lessons learned from incidents are discussed (without blaming individuals, focusing instead on what can be improved). A system of small acknowledgements or rewards for exemplary compliance with rules (for example recognising an employee who showed vigilance and prevented a potential accident) can also motivate staff. Safety culture grows through continuous learning too, by encouraging employees to participate in trainings, courses and conferences related to OHS and to share knowledge with colleagues. It is essential that everyone in the team feels that taking care of safety is part of their job, not an additional obligation. Over time, when good practices become routine and the team is proud of accident free work, it can be said that the safety culture has truly taken root.