Article
Spanish
ID: <
oai:doaj.org/article:af210e7231fe464393ba01cf9eb8f93b>
·
DOI: <
10.22490/21456453.3881>
Abstract
Contextualisation: A large number of chemicals should be used in industry and technology sectors, resulting in an increase in occupational diseases associated with factors such as exposure time, concentration. Research gap: A lack of awareness of the hazard associated with the operating conditions of cancer-causing chemicals occurring in the course of daily activities in the industry may affect human health. Purpose: The objective of the study is to identify and classify the risk related to these chemicals in a meat food processing plant in the department of Cauca (Colombia). Methodology: In a first diagnostic phase, a search for information was carried out in specialised databases, in the second phase it is developed on the basis of information gathered through the inventory of chemical substances in the plant, which are distributed in different storage sites with potential exposure. In order to identify the chemical risk estimation, a qualitative analysis was applied using the risk characterisation criterion ‘International Chemical Control Toolbox’. Subsequently, a regulatory review was carried out in Colombia relating to the handling, application and corresponding requirements of these substances, establishing control and prevention measures necessary for the chemical nature of these agents. Results obtained: The inventory identified 407 substances present in the plant, of which 91 % are classified as hazardous chemicals and 3 % correspond to chemicals with a potential carcinogenic effect. The risk assessment took into account the combination of health hazards and potential exposure that determine the desired level of control, divided into four levels of collision (1, 2, 3, 4), with collision 4 being of particular consideration because it is the most critical and most dangerous point. Conclusions: Finally, it was found that the most attentive substances in the plant are: carrier cement, COD solution B, Gasolina, Sikadur 32 First Comp B, Sikadur Panel Comp B, being inside collision 4.