Occupational safety and health in thermal power plants in Republika Srpska

This paper addresses occupational safety and health systems in the thermal power sector of Republika Srpska, with particular emphasis on a comparative case study of three facilities: Stanari Thermal Power Plant (Stanari TPP), Ugljevik Thermal Power Plant (Uglevik TPP), and Gacko Thermal Power Plant (Gacko TPP). This study aims to determine how the technological generation of facilities and the implementation of international standards (ISO 45001) influence the prevention of occupational risks. The regulatory framework, technical safety measures, and the role of the human factor in specific working conditions involving high temperatures, pressure, and exposure to toxic substances are also analyzed in this paprer. Our findings indicate that, although modern facilities such as Stanari TPP provide a higher level of protection through digitalization and closed systems, routine operations across all plants continue to pose a substantial risk of fatal outcomes. In conclusion, the paper proposes the introduction of a unified register of occupational injuries and the strict implementation of double-check protocols for high-risk operations, in order to elevate the safety system beyond mere administrative compliance toward a genuine safety culture.