Evaluation of pilot health and safety materials for use in post-primary schools

Abstract

Trends across a number of countries including Ireland indicate a high level of part-time employment in post-primary students. Research evidence indicates that such younger workers are at increased risk of non-fatal injury within the workplace, even in sectors traditionally perceived as low risk.1 There is a case for introducing health and safety awareness at secondary school level.

The Health and Safety Authority has devised a pilot teaching and learning pack for post-Junior Certificate students. The material was piloted in selected schools and evaluated to assess the impact of the programme upon the students’ knowledge of health and safety information and upon their safety beliefs and behaviour, to assess the perceived usefulness of the structure and appropriateness of the content of the module material and to assess the operational aspects of the programme.