Occupational Health Hazards and Safety in OGDCL and Attock Refinery Limited Pakistan

Abstract

The present study consists of two major objectives. First, to identify major health hazards at two oil and gas industries named, OGDCL and Attock Refinery. Second, conducting a questionnaire survey to determine the awareness of the workers about the identified health hazards. The heat, noise, vibration, and chemical hazards were identified and measured through various instruments including; accelerometer, WBGT Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT meter), sound level meter, and a gas analyzer for Hydrogen Sulphide. The noise level values ranged between 30 dbA and 90 dbA in OGDCL The risk level of the noise hazard is higher in the generator and rig floor area as per the standard values of OSHA. The noise level values ranged between 62 dbA and 90 dbA in the Attock Refinery. The risk level of the noise hazard is higher in the distillation unit as per the standard values of OSHA. The rest of the hazards were visually inspected and the risk levels was identified. The sample size of 300 was chosen for conducting the questionnaire survey for determining the awareness of the workers about the hazards. The results of the study was organized through tables and analyzed through graphs. The risk level for all of the hazrds was identifed through comparisons with OSHA and ISO standards. At the end of the study recommendations for avoiding hazards are given. Like, The workers intending to work in areas where the risk level of the thermal hazard is high should pursue a work permit from the health and safety management. And If the lower level of temperature and noise is unavoidable at the workplace, then the relevant personal protective equipment should be properly and routinely used to avoid a higher risk level for the worker's health.