OCCUPATIONAL RISK ASSESSMENT STUDY

 

The Occupational Risk Assessment Study (ORAS) aims to identify, evaluate, and manage risks associated with the workplace environment.

 

Risks may include physical, chemical, biological, ergonomic, psychosocial, and other factors that can impact the health and safety of workers.

 

The ORAS is required by current legislation and aims to proactively address risks, reducing the likelihood of accidents and occupational diseases.

 

1. General Principles of Risk Assessment

 

The risk assessment is based on the following principles:

 

Hazard identification: Recording potential sources of risk in the workplace.

 

Risk evaluation: Assessing the likelihood of occurrence and the severity of consequences.

 

Prevention measures: Developing strategies to eliminate or mitigate risks.

 

Monitoring and review: Regularly monitoring the effectiveness of measures and reviewing the study as required.

 

 

2. Categories of Risks

 

3.1 Physical Risks

 

Temperature and climate conditions: Excessive heat or cold can affect worker comfort and safety.

 

Noise: Exposure to excessive noise can lead to hearing problems.

 

Lighting: Poor lighting can cause eye strain and increase the risk of accidents.

 

2.2 Mechanical Risks

 

Risks from machinery: Use of machinery without proper safety measures can cause injuries.

 

Falling objects: There is a risk of heavy or sharp objects falling.

 

2.3 Chemical Risks

 

Hazardous substances: Exposure to toxic or corrosive substances can cause respiratory, skin, or other health problems.

 

Fumes and gases: Risk from inhaling toxic gases or fumes in enclosed spaces.

 

2.4 Biological Risks

 

Microorganisms: Risk of infection from bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other biological agents.

 

Exposure to biological waste: Particularly important in environments with contact with waste or healthcare materials.

 

2.5 Ergonomic Risks

 

Repetitive movements: Can lead to muscle and ligament strain, resulting in repetitive strain injuries (RSI).

 

Poor posture: Non-ergonomic seating or workspaces can cause musculoskeletal problems.

 

2.6 Psychosocial Risks

 

Stress: Excessive stress in the workplace can cause physical and psychological problems.

 

Workload: Excessive work and tight deadlines can negatively affect employees' mental health.

 

3. Prevention and Protection Measures

 

For each risk category, the following prevention measures are proposed:

 

Physical Risks: Proper temperature control, use of hearing protection, adequate and appropriate lighting.

 

Mechanical Risks: Regular machinery maintenance, use of protective covers, training on correct machinery usage.

 

Chemical Risks: Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves and masks, proper ventilation, adherence to chemical usage guidelines.

 

Biological Risks: Use of protective suits, disinfection and hygiene in workspaces, regular health checks for employees.

 

Ergonomic Risks: Adjusting workstations and providing ergonomic equipment, scheduled breaks for rest and stretching exercises.

 

Psychosocial Risks: Flexible working hours, employee support programs, improved communication in the workplace.

 

4. Monitoring and Review

 

The assessment of occupational risks is a dynamic process and should be regularly monitored and reviewed to ensure that preventive measures remain effective.

 

Changes in technology, work methods, or legislation must be taken into account.

 

Conclusion

 

Systematic assessment of occupational risks and the implementation of appropriate prevention and protection measures are critical to ensuring the health and safety of employees in any work environment.

 

Consistent implementation and monitoring of these measures can reduce the risk of accidents and occupational diseases, enhancing productivity and well-being in the workplace.

 

This general framework can be further tailored depending on the specific characteristics of each work sector.