Abstract:

The main objective of the current school system is to acquire new knowledge with the perspective of its further use in practice. We are building an adaptable school system in which education systems respond to changes related to individual areas of human activity. A lot of life skills which ensure the child's welfare and health and safety should be developed as early as pre-school and primary school. It is important to realize, that in addition to the family, the school systematically affects the primary prevention with regard to hygiene work and health protection of pupils. We present some knowledge and experience related to Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) in primary education in elementary schools.

The paper highlights the function of a minimal preventive program in primary schools oriented with regard to hygiene, first aid and OHS. Based on a survey, we evaluated the knowledge of elementary school pupils aged 8-10 (classes 3rd and 4th) in selected areas. The survey method used (a questionnaire) focused on hygiene, first aid and safety on the part of primary school pupils. The survey also focused on chemicals in terms of educational work and in relation to their application in practice. In the paper we evaluate the interest of pupils in chemicals they use in a household setting (cleaning products and disinfectants). The aim is to point out their negative impact on the environment and hence on population health. Good health is a major resource in terms of social, economic and personal development, and is an important aspect of life quality. This survey is part of the KEGA project No. 044UKF-4/2017, which aims to prevent environmental problems and thus to ensure the quality of health.

We assume that training and education in hygiene, and compliance with health and safety principles, is starting to develop in children at an early age. When certain habits and rules are formed in children, it is not easy to change them. The content of education in this area should also address the main features associated with issues of quality of life and environmental protection. It is important to lead the young generation to take decisive steps that will be related to behaviour that positively aims to protect health, and thus also the environment.

From the point of view of hygiene and occupational health and safety, the biggest problem is the issue of increasing the number of injuries in schools, whether as part of the educational process or in free time activities, and the possibilities of preventing them. Education in this area does not only involve the preparation of future specialists, but also includes the general training and education of schoolchildren. Current trends point to the fact that education and training with regard to hygiene and OHS are changing. It is not enough for pupils to meet OHS issues only during their schooling. Life-long learning is necessary, as is their practical application.

Keywords:

Education, Occupational Health and Safety (OSH), pupil, teacher, safe environment.