Control de accidentes y enfermedades profesionales en actividades de mantenimiento de tanques de almacenamiento de hidrocarburos

Abstract

This study is part of hazard identification, risk assessment and determination of control measures in the sludge extraction activities inside a storage tank hydrocarbon in the Terminal de ProductosLimpios Cuenca de EP Petroecuador.Because, in national rules are not set limits for exposure to chemical agents, the values obtained during the sludge removal work have been compared with those recommended by ACGIH (Defining the Science of Occupational and Environmental Health).It has been determined that the internal atmosphere of the tank evaluated, workers are exposed to a high risk of poisoning, because of the presence of carbon monoxide (CO) and sulfur dioxide (SO2). It was also found that the lower explosive limit (% LEL) exceeds the maximum allowed value. According to research problems that affect health by prolonged exposure to CO and SO2 can cause conditions to the central nervous and cardiovascular system in the first case and the second lung problems.With the results obtained it was determined to work in extracting sludge inside a tank gasoline is stored at high risk due to high levels of CO, SO2 and% LEL; however, with the measures currently implemented has reduced the risk and can perform tasks in a less aggressive environment.