Occupational risk in Mountain Environments: A Case Study of the Val D’Aran

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Published 09-12-2025
José Luis Retolaza Shanti De Retolaza

Abstract

The tragic death of two researchers in an avalanche during an expedition in the Catalan Pyrenees has highlighted a series of failures in safety management in mountain environments, as well as a lack of foresight in risk prevention measures. This account explores the details of the events, the risk factors, and the responsibilities involved from a safety and risk management perspective.

This analysis addresses a case ruled on by the High Court of Justice of Catalonia (STSJ CAT 4520/2022), which deals with the employment nature of the relationship between the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) and two individuals who died during a scientific research expedition. The case provides a setting for discussing key aspects of occupational risk prevention in research activities, especially those involving hazardous environments such as mountains or remote areas, and informal hiring in scientific projects.

 

How to Cite

Retolaza, J. L., & De Retolaza, S. (2025). Occupational risk in Mountain Environments: A Case Study of the Val D’Aran. Lan Harremanak. https://doi.org/10.1387/lan-harremanak.27707
Abstract 5 | PDF (Español (España)) Downloads 2

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Keywords

Keywords: Prevention, Risks, Mountain accident, Employment relationship

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