scholarly journals STUDY OF OCCUPATIONAL RISK ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

2021 ◽  
pp. 68-75
Author(s):  
V.I. MORGACHOVA
Keyword(s):  
Risk Assessment ◽  
Occupational Safety ◽  
Occupational Risk ◽  
Assessment Tools ◽  
Acceptable Level ◽  
Production Operation ◽  
Rapid Reduction ◽  
Protective Measures ◽  
Occupational Risks ◽  
Future Work

 In the course of work it was demonstrated that occupational risk is considered to be the probability of harm to health as a result of exposure to harmful and / or dangerous production factors during the labor process. A prerequisite for occupational safety in production activities is knowledge and assessment of the activities of sources of danger, risk assessment tools, the degree of impact of hazards on people and taking the necessary measures. Risk management is carried out in the performance of each production operation performed by employees of the enterprise, and is aimed at eliminating or reducing unacceptable risks through the implementation of appropriate protective measures. Without the analysis and management of occupational risks, it is impossible to create safe conditions, as well as reduce injuries and reduce occupational diseases. One of the main methods of occupational risk analysis that gives the best results is the method of analysis of causation using a dynamic model. In order to identify hazards, assess risks and implement protective measures that can ensure the acceptable level of risks of future work, it is necessary to consider the production task and visit the work site. Work is allowed if there are no additional hazards and protective measures of the Risk Assessment Map are actually implemented. It is forbidden to perform the work when identifying additional hazards that require reducing the risks of additional resources and the decision of management. It is strictly forbidden to perform the work until the rapid reduction of the level of risk to an acceptable level begins − with the identification of additional hazards that require the development and implementation of protective measures at the expense of personal resources.

scholarly journals Development of an Occupational Risk Assessment Tool for Laboratory Animal Facilities

2019 ◽  
Vol 24 (2) ◽  
pp. 72-82 ◽  
Author(s):  
April M. Clayton ◽  
James Hayes ◽  
George W. Lathrop ◽  
Nathaniel Powell
Keyword(s):  
Risk Assessment ◽  
Laboratory Animal ◽  
Occupational Safety ◽  
Assessment Tool ◽  
Occupational Risk ◽  
Risk Assessment Tool ◽  
Laboratory Research ◽  
Occupational Risks ◽  
Risk Acceptability ◽  
Animal Care

Introduction: Laboratory animal facilities aim to provide excellence in animal care and welfare and support scientific research. Critical to these goals is to ensure a safe work environment for personnel comprising veterinary and animal care, laboratory research, and maintenance staff. Objective: Thus, performing occupational risk assessments allows for evaluation of risks from identified hazards associated with a variety of tasks ongoing in laboratory animal facilities. Methods: Herein, we present the development of an occupational risk assessment tool purposed to capture the dynamics of work performed in laboratory animal facilities, calculate and prioritize identified risks associated with procedures and processes, and inform and evaluate risk mitigations. Results: We also discuss a risk assessment for refining sharps use in nonhuman primate husbandry and care to demonstrate the utility of this tool to improve occupational safety in our animal facility. Conclusion: This tool and framework evolve into a holistic occupational risk management system that identifies, evaluates, and mitigates occupational risks; determines risk acceptability; consistently ensures communication and consultation with frontline personnel, stakeholders, senior leadership, and subject matter experts in biosafety, science, and animal care and welfare; and continuously strives to improve and enhance the operations of laboratory animal facilities.

scholarly journals Biological risk assessment: A challenge for occupational health and safety practitioners during the COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) Pandemic

Work ◽  
2021 ◽  
pp. 1-11
Author(s):  
Carlos Carvalhais ◽  
Micaela Querido ◽  
Cristiana C. Pereira ◽  
Joana Santos
Keyword(s):  
Risk Assessment ◽  
Occupational Safety ◽  
Assessment Method ◽  
Occupational Safety And Health ◽  
Risk Level ◽  
Biological Risk ◽  
Occupational Risks ◽  
Qualitative Risk Assessment ◽  
Safety And Health ◽  
Medium Risk

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 global pandemic brought several challenges to occupational safety and health practice. One of these is the need to (re)assess the occupational risks, particularly, biological risks. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this work is to promote guidance to occupational safety and health practitioners when conducting a biological risk assessment in this context. METHODS: The main steps of the biological risk assessment are explained with some inputs regarding the novelty posed by SARS-CoV-2 and an example of a qualitative risk assessment method is presented. Also, its application to two different activities was exemplified. RESULTS: In both cases, the assessment considered that vulnerable workers were working from home or in medical leave. The results showed low or medium risk level for the assessed tasks. For medium risk level, additional controls are advised, such maintain social distancing, sanitize instruments/equipment before use, use proper and well-maintained PPE (when applicable), and promote awareness sessions to spread good practices at work. Employers must be aware of their obligations regarding biological risk assessment and OSH practitioners must be prepared to screen and link the abundance of scientific evidence generated following the outbreak, with the technical practice. CONCLUSIONS: This paper could be an important contribution to OSH practice since it highlights the need to (re)assess occupational risks, especially biological risk, to ensure a safe return to work, providing technical guidance.

Considering the Synergetic Effects at Occupational Risk Assessment in Oil Mines

2021 ◽  
pp. 89-94
Author(s):  
A.I. Fomin ◽  
◽  
E.V. Nor ◽  
T.V. Grunskoy ◽  
◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Assessment ◽  
Synergetic Effect ◽  
Occupational Risk ◽  
Labor Conditions ◽  
Synergetic Effects ◽  
Occupational Risks ◽  
Production Factors ◽  
Hazardous Production ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Negative Factors

The analytical review of labor conditions in the oil mines of the Yaregskoye field has demonstrated that the majority of work places (82 %) are considered hazardous, of subclass 3.1–3.3. The analysis of the basic process operations for high-viscosity oil production using the thermoshaft method has determined the combinations of hazardous production factors at work places. Studying the diversity of versions and combinations of negative factors and their complex impact on oil mine workers enabled detecting a synergetic effect that increases the risk of development of occupational diseases. It is established that for occupational risks assessment considering the potential interaction of hazardous production factors and their impact on personnel’s health is crucial. Today, the synergetic effects are not considered for occupational risk assessment in oil mines. Development of a methodological approach to occupational risk assessment including synergy is required. The suggested method is based on building up a mathematical model for occupational risk assessment with combined effects of negative factors that uses the combined effect coefficient considering the impact of synergetic effect. Comparing the data on labor conditions’ classes, occupational disease indices and obtained results, including the synergetic effects for the main underground occupations of the oil mines has demonstrated the bias approach for the earlier occupational assessment that neglected occupational risks to health in conditions of combined impact of negative factors. Within calculations, the significance of synergism math model for occupational risk assessment is confirmed.

scholarly journals Methodical approaches to assessing categories of occupational risk predetermined by various health disorders among workers related to occupational and labor process factors

2020 ◽  
pp. 23-30
Author(s):  
N.V. Zaitseva ◽  
◽  
P.Z. Shur ◽  
V.B. Alekseev ◽  
A.A. Savochkina ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Assessment ◽  
Occupational Risk ◽  
Labor Process ◽  
Risk Category ◽  
Risk Levels ◽  
Work Related ◽  
Occupational Risks ◽  
Numeric Characteristic ◽  
Health Disorders ◽  
Process Factors

If we want to assess occupational risks predetermined by various health disorders among workers related to occupational factors and labor process factors, we need to examine whether additional methods can be applied here; these methods should allow not only quantitative determination of occupational risk but also its adequate categorizing. A procedure for risk assessment based on fuzzy sets analysis can be considered and applied for the matter. Suggested methodical approaches to occupational risk assessment based on this procedure involve step-by-step accomplishment of the following stages: determining fuzzy figures corresponding to preset occupational risk levels; preparing initial data (numeric characteristics of occupational risk) for calculations; probabilistic assessment whether a numeric characteristic of occupational risk belongs to fuzzy numbers; and estimated probability of belonging of occupational risk numeric characteristic. A basic instrument for implementing the procedure is determining a membership function for a trapezoid fuzzy number that estimates whether determined risk assessments belong to a specific risk category. We suggested a scale for assessing occupational risk levels, starting from negligible (0–1∙10-4) to extremely high (3∙10-1–1) and corresponding boundaries of trapezoid fuzzy interval (four figures that define a trapezoid number). The procedure was tested in a situation when occupational diseases (sensorineural hearing loss), work-related diseases (arterial hypertension), and their combinations were revealed under exposure to noise equal to 85 dBA; the tests allowed establishing that membership functions were equal to 1 for all risk levels determined as per results obtained via epidemiologic research.

scholarly journals Development of a Digital Video-Based Occupational Risk Assessment Method

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nils Ove Beese ◽  
Francisca S. Rodriguez ◽  
Jan Spilski ◽  
Thomas Lachmann
Keyword(s):  
Risk Assessment ◽  
Risk Factor ◽  
Video Analysis ◽  
Video Recording ◽  
Assessment Method ◽  
Occupational Risk ◽  
Assessment Tools ◽  
Assessment Process ◽  
Hazardous Substances ◽  
Risk Assessment Process

The development and implementation of an observational video-based risk assessment is described. Occupational risk assessment is one of the most important yet also challenging tasks for employers. Most assessment tools to date use questionnaires, expert interviews, and similar tools. Video analysis is a promising tool for risk assessment, but it needs an objective basis. A video of a plastering worker was recorded using a 360° camera. The recording was then analyzed using the developed observational matrix concerning Work Characteristics, Work Activities as well as potential risks. Risk factors present during the video of the work included lifting, fall from ladder, hazardous substances as well as occasionally bad posture. The worker had no or just one risk factor present during most of the time of the video recording, while only 16 s with more than one risk factor present according to the observational matrix. The paper presents a promising practical method to assess occupational risks on a case-by-case basis. It can help with the risk assessment process in companies which is required by law in some industrialized countries. The matrix in combination with video analysis is a first step toward digital observational risk assessment. It can also be the basis of an automated risk assessment process.

scholarly journals Early detection of lung cancer in a population at high risk due to occupation and smoking

2018 ◽  
Vol 76 (3) ◽  
pp. 137-142 ◽  
Author(s):  
Laura S Welch ◽  
John M Dement ◽  
Kim Cranford ◽  
Janet Shorter ◽  
Patricia S Quinn ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Lung Cancer ◽  
Risk Assessment ◽  
Cancer Screening ◽  
High Risk ◽  
Lung Cancer Screening ◽  
Occupational Exposures ◽  
Occupational Risk ◽  
Assessment Tools ◽  
Occupational Risk Factors ◽  
Lung Cancers

ObjectiveThe US National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommends two pathways for eligibility for Early Lung Cancer Detection (ELCD) programmes. Option 2 includes individuals with occupational exposures to lung carcinogens, in combination with a lesser requirement on smoking. Our objective was to determine if this algorithm resulted in a similar prevalence of lung cancer as has been found using smoking risk alone, and if so to present an approach for lung cancer screening in high-risk worker populations.MethodsWe enrolled 1260 former workers meeting NCCN criteria, with modifications to account for occupational exposures in an ELCD programme.ResultsAt baseline, 1.6% had a lung cancer diagnosed, a rate similar to the National Lung Cancer Screening Trial (NLST). Among NLST participants, 59% were current smokers at the time of baseline scan or had quit smoking fewer than 15 years prior to baseline; all had a minimum of 30 pack-years of smoking. Among our population, only 24.5% were current smokers and 40.1% of our participants had smoked fewer than 30 pack-years; only 43.5% would meet entry criteria for the NLST. The most likely explanation for the high prevalence of screen-detected lung cancers in the face of a reduced risk from smoking is the addition of occupational risk factors for lung cancer.ConclusionOccupational exposures to lung carcinogens should be incorporated into criteria used for ELCD programmes, using the algorithm developed by NCCN or with an individualised risk assessment; current risk assessment tools can be modified to incorporate occupational risk.

scholarly journals Methodical approaches to assessing categories of occupational risk predetermined by various health disorders among workers related to occupational and labor process factors

2020 ◽  
pp. 23-30
Author(s):  
N.V. Zaitseva ◽  
◽  
P.Z. Shur ◽  
V.B. Alekseev ◽  
A.A. Savochkina ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Assessment ◽  
Occupational Risk ◽  
Labor Process ◽  
Risk Category ◽  
Risk Levels ◽  
Work Related ◽  
Occupational Risks ◽  
Numeric Characteristic ◽  
Health Disorders ◽  
Process Factors

If we want to assess occupational risks predetermined by various health disorders among workers related to occupational factors and labor process factors, we need to examine whether additional methods can be applied here; these methods should allow not only quantitative determination of occupational risk but also its adequate categorizing. A procedure for risk assessment based on fuzzy sets analysis can be considered and applied for the matter. Suggested methodical approaches to occupational risk assessment based on this procedure involve step-by-step accomplishment of the following stages: determining fuzzy figures corresponding to preset occupational risk levels; preparing initial data (numeric characteristics of occupational risk) for calculations; probabilistic assessment whether a numeric characteristic of occupational risk belongs to fuzzy numbers; and estimated probability of belonging of occupational risk numeric characteristic. A basic instrument for implementing the procedure is determining a membership function for a trapezoid fuzzy number that estimates whether determined risk assessments belong to a specific risk category. We suggested a scale for assessing occupational risk levels, starting from negligible (0–1∙10-4) to extremely high (3∙10-1–1) and corresponding boundaries of trapezoid fuzzy interval (four figures that define a trapezoid number). The procedure was tested in a situation when occupational diseases (sensorineural hearing loss), work-related diseases (arterial hypertension), and their combinations were revealed under exposure to noise equal to 85 dBA; the tests allowed establishing that membership functions were equal to 1 for all risk levels determined as per results obtained via epidemiologic research

scholarly journals IMPROVEMENT OF OCCUPATIONAL RISK ASSESSMENT ON THE BASIS OF EXPERT METHODS

2021 ◽  
Vol 37 (2) ◽  
pp. 3-8
Author(s):  
O. Kruzhilko ◽  
N. Volodchenkova ◽  
O. Tokar ◽  
V. Maistrenko
Keyword(s):  
Risk Assessment ◽  
Working Conditions ◽  
Preventive Measures ◽  
Occupational Risk ◽  
Regulatory Requirements ◽  
Active Involvement ◽  
Occupational Risks ◽  
Production Factors ◽  
Expert Assessments ◽  
Flexible Mechanism

Objective: to develop and theoretically substantiate such an approach, which should ensure the creation of information and calculation-analytical basis for planning and implementation of effective preventive measures aimed at minimizing occupational risks in the workplace. Various approaches to the calculation of occupational risk are analyzed, primarily those based on the results of the assessment of working conditions in the workplace on the indicators of production factors (certification of jobs). Among the general shortcomings of the methods that use the results of job certification, the main ones should be noted: the probability of violation of the measurement method, insufficient objectivity in the assessment of production factors, the long period between measurements, high cost. It is noted that the main tasks that need to be addressed are: the formation of information databases for calculations, development of assessment methods and the involvement of qualified experts. A method of occupational risk assessment is proposed, the peculiarity of which is taking into account the results of measurements of the levels of production factors and expert assessments. As a result of calculations, the calculated value of occupational risk for a particular profession allows us to draw a conclusion about the extent to which working conditions meet current regulatory requirements. Conclusions: the proposed approach provides incentives for employers to ensure safe and harmless working conditions, as well as active involvement of employees in solving problems of labor protection. As promising areas for improving the assessment of occupational risks noted: the introduction of a flexible mechanism for systematic survey of working conditions in the workplace, justification of levels of gradation of occupational risk, the introduction of modern information systems for accounting and analysis of production factors in dynamics.

Identification and assessment risks in maintenance operations

2014 ◽  
Vol 4 (4) ◽  
pp. 384-405 ◽  
Author(s):  
W.M.P.U. Wijeratne ◽  
B.A.K.S. Perera ◽  
L. De Silva
Keyword(s):  
Risk Assessment ◽  
Risk Identification ◽  
Consumer Products ◽  
Assessment Methods ◽  
Assessment Tools ◽  
Sri Lankan ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Occupational Risks ◽  
Systematic Training ◽  
Maintenance Work

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to identify the risks and methods for their assessment in the case of maintenance activities in Sri Lanka. The main objectives were to identify the occupational risks in maintenance work and the risk assessment methods in place and their drawbacks in the Sri Lankan context. Design/methodology/approach – The identification and assessment of risks were undertaken through a study of three fast-moving consumer products manufacturing organisations. The relevant data were collected through personal interviews and site visits. Findings – Most typical risks associated with maintenance are cuts, slips and falls, with severe or fatal injuries as the result of negligence of SOP and failure to use the PPE. Checklists, brainstorming and decomposition techniques were identified as the preferred methods in maintenance for risk identification while a risk rating matrix is used for risk analysis. Lack of awareness and indifference towards risk assessment; make effective risk assessment very difficult. These drawbacks can be minimised by education, systematic training and enforcing rules, regulations and procedures for controlling risks. Originality/value – Studies on maintenance worldwide have identified several maintenance-specific risks such as working at heights, the pressure of time, etc. However, there is a dearth of published research on risks and risk assessment methods in maintenance in Sri Lankan context. The findings highlighted the safety risks and risk assessment tools entailed in the maintenance operations of manufacturing organisations. The findings will be useful for those in maintenance operations in managing risks effectively through designing work environments that are risk-free.

Influence of Working Conditions of Priority Sectors of the Economy of Kazakhstan on the Formation of Occupational Risks

2020 ◽  
pp. 82-88
Author(s):  
S.A. Bekeeva ◽  
◽  
N.G. Dzhumagulova ◽  
Zh.Kh. Esbenbetova ◽  
A.E. Tanabaeva ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Assessment ◽  
High Risk ◽  
Working Conditions ◽  
Personal Protective Equipment ◽  
Injury Risk ◽  
Occupational Risk ◽  
Labor Process ◽  
Protective Equipment ◽  
Occupational Risks ◽  
High Degree

Occupational risk assessment was carried out for the employees of 956 different professions of 20 enterprises under study in five sectors of the economy: construction, mining, manufacturing, agriculture, transportation, and warehousing. The study was conducted using the Methodological Recommendation on the implementation of the occupational risk management system at an enterprise. This Methodological Recommendation was developed by the Republican state enterprise on the right of economic management — Republican Scientific Research Institute for Labour Protection of Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Occupational risks were assessed in the context of specific professions and structural divisions of the enterprises by five indicators: harmful working conditions, injury risk of the labor process, safety of production equipment, availability of personal protective equipment, and risk of morbidity. Based on the results of the assessment, the degree of individual occupational risk on each assessed indicator is determined by five gradations: I — acceptable risk, II — low, III — medium, IV — high and V — very high. According to the results of the occupational risk assessment, a high risk (4 degree) was established at the enterprises of mining, construction, agricultural industries, as well as transport, and warehousing industries. According to the results of equipment safety assessment, a high risk (grade IV) was identified at the enterprises of transport and mining industries. Due to the low provision with the personal protective equipment and its non-compliance with the certification requirements, a high risk is assigned to the enterprises of mining and construction industries. It is established that a high degree of occupational risk is due to the injury risk of working conditions, insufficient provision of personal protective equipment along with their low quality, the severity and intensity of the labor process accompanied by a high degree of the employees morbidity, as well as the use of the outdated equipment in production.

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