Impact of an occupational risk management model based on PDCA and ISO 45001 on Occupational Safety and Health performance in LPG plants.
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Abstract
Introduction: The liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) industry in Ecuador is a strategic but highly hazardous sector, where failures in process control can lead to catastrophic events. Despite current regulations, a gap persists between documentary compliance and effective implementation of field controls. Traditional risk assessment approaches are insufficient to address the complexity of packaging operations, which demand systemic management models based on continuous improvement. Objective: Determine the effect of the implementation of an occupational risk management model, based on the PDCA cycle (Plan, Do, Check, Act) and aligned with ISO 45001:2018, on risk control and Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) performance in the unloading, packaging and maintenance processes of the MENDOGAS plant. Methodology: A quantitative, applied and explanatory approach was used, with a quasi-experimental pre-post design without a control group. The population consisted of a census of 45 workers. Structured surveys under Likert scale, instrumental measurements (noise, particles and explosive atmospheres) and structural equation modeling (SEM) were used to validate the causal relationships between the management system, technical management and OSH performance. Results: The initial diagnosis revealed critical conditions, including noise levels of 98.4 dB(A) and 20% explosive atmospheres (LEL). After implementation of the model, the overall perception of management increased from an average of 2.85 to 4.16. SEM analysis confirmed that the Management System (SGPRL) directly influences performance (β = 0.296) and reduces uncertainty versus risk (β = -0.312). Wilcoxon tests confirmed significant improvements (p < .001) in all the processes analyzed. Conclusion: The application of a formalized model under ISO 45001 and the PDCA cycle transforms operational safety from reactive to proactive. It is concluded that the integration of technical controls and human talent management are determinant to improve OSH performance, demonstrating that the strengthening of the preventive culture and the administrative structure significantly reduce vulnerability in high-risk facilities. General Area of Study: Risk management. Specific area of study: Occupational risk management. Type of study: Original articles.
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