Study Details Steps to Create Safety Culture in Saudi Academic Institutions
The Institute for Research and Consulting Studies completed a study on safety in collaboration with the General Directorate of Civil Defense. It recommended the participation of university students in the planning and execution of safety programs within universities, the establishment of a technical support center to produce safety oriented educational content, and the establishment of safety intervention units in universities. Notably, the study also stressed the importance of establishing safety and fire production academic programs.
The primary objective of the study was to introduce the culture of safety to the university community. It was underscored by the identification of opportunities for cooperation between the King Khalid University and the General Directorate of Civil Defense. The majority of the recommendations entail the creation of programs and procedures that will accelerate the implementation of societal safety awareness strategies. It is expected that the outcomes of this study will have a far-reaching effect leading to the Ministry of Education and other public education administrations in the Kingdom to develop partnerships with security institutions safety agencies.
Institute of Research and Consulting Studies Dean, Dr. Abdulateef Al-Hadithi, said: "This study bolsters safety awareness in the community. It is a common interest among all private and governmental entities." Dean Al Hadithi explained that the partnership agreement between King Khalid University and the General Directorate of Civil Defense reflects the university's interest and desire in protecting and saving lives as well as protecting public properties through spreading the culture of safety by holding workshops and training.
The recommendations of the study include but are not limited to:
- Training faculty members and staff on industry safety and fire protection standards;
- Stressing the importance of safety procedures among the members of the university;
- Intensifying the spread of safety awareness and encouraging university employees to include safety awareness in all activities;
- Applying safety measures in all departments and units;
- Holding lectures, seminars, and symposiums on safety procedures;
- Establishing a higher education diploma program in safety and fire protection;
- Establishing a masters program in safety engineering and fire protection.
