Abstract

TORRES-SANDOVAL, Fabian Alfredo  and  MURCIA-HURTADO, David Alejandro. Risk due to exposure to chemical agents and explosive atmospheres in the coal mines of Tópaga, Colombia. Entramado [online]. 2021, vol.17, n.2, pp.292-304.  Epub Jan 30, 2022. ISSN 1900-3803.  https://doi.org/10.18041/1900-3803/entramado.2.7108.

An observational cross-sectional study with a descriptive approach was carried out with the objective of determining the risk due to exposure to chemical agents, dangerous atmospheres and defining recommendations to improve working conditions in the coal mines of Tópaga (Boyacá). During the data collection process was used the questionnaire for the identification and prevention of risk in confined spaces, of the National Institute of Safety and Hygiene at Work. Moreover gas measurements were made in the mines. The results show that 25% of the mines have oxygen levels below 19.5% and none exceed the explosive limit. 15% exceed the Permissible Limit Value (VLP) for carbon monoxide and 20% exceed the VLP for hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide. The proposed recommendations include favoring natural ventilation, applying forced ventilation when the natural one is insufficient and the use of non-sparking shoes and tools. It is concluded that, in general, the working conditions in the mines are inadequate for the safety and health of the miners.

Keywords : Chemical agents; coal mines; explosive atmospheres; miners; risk; Tópaga, Boyacá.

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