Influence of personal protective equipment in the reduction of accidents and occupational diseases in workers in the area of maintenance of pressure stations and valves in companies in Ecuador.

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to analyze the influence of the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in the reduction of accidents and occupational diseases among workers in the area of maintenance of pressure stations and valves in companies in Ecuador. The activities carried out in this area present a constant exposure to mechanical, physical, electrical and chemical risks; therefore, personal protective equipment becomes a fundamental tool for the prevention of occupational incidents. However, in several cases, the use of PPE is not applied in an adequate or constant manner, which implies the possibility of limiting its impact on worker protection. The methodology is based on a bibliographic review of scientific research related to the use of personal protective equipment and the prevention of occupational accidents. The analysis of different sources was carried out, as well as the regulation of safety and health at work. Also, verifiable evidence was identified that demonstrates that the proper use of equipment is a key risk control measure. The results of this review indicate that the correct use of personal protective equipment, provided that it is adapted to the conditions of the environment and the characteristics of the worker, contributes significantly to the reduction of accidents and occupational diseases. In addition, it was identified that the measures, when accompanied by training programs, constant supervision and compliance monitoring, have a positive impact not only on the physical safety of the workers