Development of an educational program for occupational health and safety in Saudi Arabia

Creating a comprehensive occupational safety education program is essential to ensuring workers' safety. Occupational health and safety (OHS) education programs are designed to train workers on the proper safety procedures to prevent injuries and illnesses in the workplace. These programs teach workers about the risks associated with different job tasks and guide how to work safely and effectively. Based on expert judgments, this study aims to develop an educational program for OHS in Saudi Arabia. The survey was distributed to the experts in various fields related to OHS and the education sector, and based on their opinions, recommendations were made for establishing OHS education programs in the Universities in Saudi Arabia. The survey findings revealed a strong consensus among experts regarding incorporating OHS education into university curricula. Experts emphasized the need for a balanced approach that combines theoretical knowledge with practical training. They also highlighted the importance of tailoring OHS education programs to the specific needs of different industries and occupations. The results of this study will enable universities to develop effective educational programs for OHS for students and provide graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to work and promote a culture of safety and prevention of injuries and diseases in the workplace. OHS education is expanding to include sustainability, creating a win-win where safer workplaces also benefit the environment. Educational programs are adapting to teach both OHS and environmental impact, preparing future professionals to champion human well-being.