Occupational health and safety practices in the field of information technologies of secondary education institutions providing vocational education in Kastamonu province

Vocational education is a crucial institution that enables students to become individuals with professional competence. However, the hazards and risks encountered in practical lessons in institutions providing vocational education can threaten the health and safety of both students and teachers. This study aims to identify occupational health and safety (OHS) risks in the field of information technologies in practical lessons in vocational education institutions. Despite being an essential institution for students to develop professional competence, the dangers and risks in practical lessons can pose threats to the health and safety of both students and teachers. In this study, OHS risks in the field of information technologies in three different vocational education schools in Kastamonu province were determined and the precautions to be taken were determined. Checklists were used to identify hazards and risks, Elmeri confidence index was calculated in order to get a general idea in accordance with the answers given with the checklists, and a detailed risk analysis was carried out using the 5x5 matrix system, 3T risk assessment method and Fine Kinney risk analysis method. The findings show that the main OHS risks that may be encountered in the field of information technologies are electric shock, sharp and sharp object injuries, falls and slips, burns and ergonomic problems. Among the recommendations of the study are that OHS training should be carried out regularly in institutions providing vocational training, that these trainings should focus on the hazards and risks that may be encountered in applied courses, and that OHS training should be given by technical teachers. These recommendations are expected to make a significant contribution to efforts to identify and reduce OSH risks in vocational education. The findings and recommendations of the study provide valuable information that can be used to improve the OHS measures of vocational training institutions and provide a safe training environment. Another aim of this study is to increase the awareness of technical teachers about occupational health and safety and to ensure that they convey this information to students effectively. In this way, it is aimed to increase the competencies of technical teachers and to raise individuals with professional competence. It is also aimed to have a positive impact on the employment of intermediate staff with occupational health and safety awareness.