DETERMINATION OF PHYSICAL RISK FACTORS IN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY IN PRIMARY-LEVEL SCHOOLS

Abstract

This study aims to identify and analyze physical risk factors related to occupational health and safety (OHS) in primary-level schools in Turkey and to evaluate their effects on the educational process. The research was designed using a descriptive survey model and employed qualitative content analysis based on data collected from official reports of the Ministry of National Education (MoNE), the Occupational Health and Safety Law No. 6331, academic publications, and on-site observations. Findings indicate that in most schools, physical risks are insufficiently defined, risk assessment processes remain formalistic, and managerial awareness is limited. Significant deficiencies were observed in lighting, ventilation, ergonomics, fire safety, and structural resilience. The study concludes that a safe school environment can only be ensured through managerial commitment, teacher awareness, and student participation rather than technical measures alone. It also recommends the adaptation of ISO 45001:2018 standards to educational institutions and the implementation of OHS leadership training for school administrators.