"Analysis of occupational risk factors derived from the operation of hydraulic discharges in reservoir systems: A Case study of a drinking water company in Ecuador"

Abstract

This study analyzed occupational risk factors arising from hydraulic discharge operations in reservoir systems, using a case study from a water utility company in Ecuador. The approach was quantitative with a descriptive, cross-sectional design, utilizing data from environmental monitoring carried out by the company over approximately twelve days on a non-systematic schedule. The analyzed records included physico-chemical parameters such as pH, turbidity, ammonia, dissolved oxygen, temperature, conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), and color. Statistical processing involved measures of central tendency and dispersion, normality tests (Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Shapiro-Wilk), and t-tests to characterize the consistency and variability of the identified hazards. The results revealed that pH reached maximum values of 10.0, turbidity registered 562 NTU with high variability, and ammonia was consistently present, constituting significant chemical and biological risks for workers. Dissolved oxygen showed minimum values of 4.72 mg/L, indicating conditions favorable for the development of potentially pathogenic anaerobic microorganisms. Based on these findings, an occupational risk matrix was developed, adapted from the International Labour Organization (ILO) classification and the guidelines of the National Institute for Safety and Health at Work (INSST). This matrix identified risk levels ranging from moderate to critical. It was concluded that preventive management requires the prioritized implementation of engineering controls, standardized operational protocols, adequate personal protective equipment, and a permanent environmental and medical surveillance system to protect workers' health.