Etapa 2. Vídeo 2. Medidas de prevención. Tu ruta hacia el éxito profesional
Prevention and Protection Measures in Workplace Safety
Understanding Prevention vs. Protection
- Prevention measures aim to eliminate or reduce risks at their source, while protection measures are implemented when risks cannot be eliminated, focusing on minimizing damage.
- Preventive actions can include replacing hazardous machines or substances, maintaining equipment, and designing work processes to avoid risks.
Types of Protection
- Collective protection is designed for groups of workers and acts as a barrier between the risk source and the workers (e.g., guardrails).
- Individual protection focuses on safeguarding single workers through personal protective equipment like masks and gloves.
Sequence of Actions in Risk Prevention
- The first step is always to attempt risk elimination; if not possible, the next step is to evaluate remaining risks.
- If risks persist after evaluation, collective protection should be employed; individual protection is a last resort.
Practical Examples of Risk Management
- In a noisy machine scenario, prevention might involve installing rubber pads to minimize vibration and noise.
- For toxic paint exposure in workshops, prevention could mean substituting harmful paints with safer alternatives. If substitution isn't feasible, collective protections like spray booths should be installed.
Techniques for Effective Prevention
- Safety techniques focus on preventing workplace accidents by assessing safety conditions related to machinery and environments.
- Industrial hygiene aims to prevent occupational diseases by studying various contaminants present in workplaces (physical, chemical, biological).
Ergonomics and Psychological Considerations
- Ergonomics adapts work environments to fit worker needs—ensuring proper seating arrangements or protective gear that fits well.
- Psychological aspects address mental health concerns related to workload organization and interpersonal relationships among workers.
Role of Occupational Medicine