Burning and electrocution risk’s evaluation and prevention procedures: A case study in a production work shop

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to diagnosis, assess and present prevention procedures of electrocuting and burning risk, taking as a case study electrocuting and burning situations in an Algerian setting “INFRAFER” specialized in the production of railway concrete sleepers, based in Oran. All the workers of the welding and cutting workshop (N = 38) participated in the study. ILO/IEA ergonomic checkpoints were used for the diagnostic of electrocution and burning risks. The Methodology for Analyzing System Failures (MADS) approach was used to assess the risk of electrocuting and burning. The study revealed the following results: (1) a Constant frequency of electrocuting and burning risk facing the workers of the workshop; (2) a strong dose of exposure to risk; (3) a high level of exposure to risk; (4) the risk of electrifying and burning has serious impact but without complications; (5) the level of seriousness calls for rapid intervention. By identifying the priority level, the present study recommended that “collective protection strategy” is the appropriate action to prevent this category of risks.