The Role of HSE & Risk Management in Heritage Conservation

Cultural heritage, as a mirror of human ingenuity, reflects the diversity of human civilization and serves as a bridge between the past and present, shaping our collective understanding of our shared history. The protection and maintenance of this rich and valuable treasure is a vital responsibility that requires comprehensive and multilateral strategies, as well as the joint efforts of all relevant experts and specialists. In this context, the principles and practicesof health, safety, and environmental engineering (HSE) can significantly contribute to the protection of cultural assets and the individuals involved in their preservation. HSE engineering plays an essential role in risk assessment and management during restoration projects and develops specific safety practices and procedures for safeguarding cultural heritage. By implementing risk management strategies and taking appropriate measures, potential risks to cultural works can be mitigated to an acceptable level. In this article, after identifying and evaluating the threats facing cultural relics, the application of HSE engineering and risk management tools will be explained, along with innovative suggestions and strategies for ensuring the safety and protectionof these invaluable treasures.