Measures to control occupational risks due to environmental work conditions and postural load

Abstract

Objective: To identify the risk factors due to the environmental conditions and postural load present in the jobs of the Quito Astronomical Observatory personnal, in order to propose control measures to reduce the level of present risk in such an installation.
Methods: Through the observation and application of questionnaires and surveys to 19 employees, an initial diagnosis was obtained regarding problems with lighting and noise in each job. The evaluation was carried out qualitatively and quantitatively. The postural load of all personnal was evaluated through the RULA method, the tasks performed by each employee and the postures adopted during their working hours were observed.
Results: Was determined that the noise in the machinery area has a daily equivalent noise level of 87.51 dB (A), which exceeds the permissible limit of 85 dB (A) established in Executive Decree 2393. Regarding the lighting results, of the 14 work areas analyzed, only 4 areas meet the minimum lighting levels established in the Mexican standard NOM-025. Finally, measures such as the use of hearing protectors, the redesign of the lighting system, ergonomic recommendations and a maintenance plan are proposed.
Conclusions: The observation and evaluation applied to the staff of the Quito Astronomical Observatory allowed to identify problems of poor illumination and excessive noise in certain areas of jobs