تحقیقات سلامت در جامعه (Oct 2020)
Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment Using Hazard Analysis Method in Facilities Zone of a Steel Industry in Khuzestan, Iran
Abstract
Introduction and purpose: Industries face different risks and dangers depending on the type of their activity. To reduce the level of risks in the workplace, the application of standard methods of risk identification and assessment is highly beneficial. This study aimed to identify hazards and assess risks using the hazard analysis (HAZAN) method in one of the steel industries in Khuzestan Province, Iran. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted with a cross-sectional qualitative design in the facilities zone of one of the steel companies in the south of Iran within 4 months in 2018. The hazard analysis risk assessment technique was used to assess the risk of occupations in units. In this study, direct observation of jobs, workers' experiences, and interviews with officials and supervisors were used to collect the required data. Risk levels were classified as unacceptable, undesirable, acceptable if controlled, and acceptable represented by ranks of 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Results: According to the results of this study, 1,763 hazards were identified in the whole facilities zone with water treatment plant 1, Makeup, and water treatment plant 2 areas as the most dangerous facilities areas with 644, 410, and 395 hazards, respectively. Moreover, out of the total identified risks in the 7 investigated units in the facilities zone, 4.6, 6.5, 28.9, and 60% areas were identified in the ranks of 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Conclusion: The implementation of the HAZAN method in the studied industry determined systematically what dangers existed in the steel facilities zone and which areas were involved in more risks. Furthermore, it was possible for the relevant officials and supervisors to properly prioritize the implementation of control strategies. Therefore, the HAZAN method can be well applied to increase staff awareness of existing risks and assess the available risks of the steel industry.
