Sìcura 2024: University of Bologna Events for the Workplace Safety and Health Week

Once again this year, the University of Bologna is taking part in the European Week for Safety and Health at Work with Sìcura, the third edition of its university-wide event series. From 21 to 25 October, the initiative will engage the academic community, students, industry professionals, and the wider public on these topics, aiming to shift their perspective and expectations.

The goal of the scheduled events—both those open to the public and those reserved for the academic community and students—is to raise awareness about workplace safety and health. These issues should not be seen merely as legal obligations but to care for oneself, others, and workplace relationships, whether physical or mental.

The topic will be explored from various angles, with the understanding that protecting health and safety at work involves not only improving the workplace structures but also the individuals themselves. Work should be more than just harm-free—it should provide freedom, dignity, autonomy, self-fulfilment, and participation in shared progress.

During the events, attention will be given to gender-based medicine, diagnostic and therapeutic choices in healthcare, and the health and safety of women. There will also be moments of reflection on the importance of taking active breaks during the work or study day, as well as on the miscommunication issues that often hinder effective communication in the workplace.

Additionally, performances will be held to illustrate how even a minor incident can escalate into a workplace injury. The events will also show how awareness and a culture of workplace safety can be promoted through art. Another key focus will be on the use of nudging theory to encourage positive behavioural changes.

Moreover, there will be discussions on the ecology of Italian predators such as wolves and bears, explaining their distribution and how to interact with them safely.

With the support of Civil Protection and the university’s disaster manager, the event will also highlight the importance of emergency planning, including the identification of roles and responsibilities for managing such situations. Meanwhile, the Italian Red Cross will offer demonstrations on first aid procedures aimed at non-medical personnel.

Sìcura 2024 will conclude with an awards ceremony for the students who win the University of Bologna’s contest, which will recognize the two best projects dedicated to improving health and safety in the digital workplace.