Classification of occupational hazards in a project of styrene device of petrochemical enterprise: Application of the guidelines for implementation of occupational hazard management system

Objective Based on the guidelines for implementation of occupational hazard management system, the occupational hazards in a project of styrene device of petrochemical enterprise were evaluated; furthermore the feasibility of these guidelines was discussed.

Methods The occupational hazards in a styrene device of petrochemical enterprise was studied. The occupational health survey was done; the necessary information related to chemical exposure was collected and the exposure levels at work environments were measured. The classification of occupational hazards was done based on the guidelines.

Results The workers exposed to benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, styrene and noise in this project. The occupational hazard of workers engaged in inspection and analysis in the laboratory was ranked as middle level, while the hazard of workers engaged in the operation and stevedoring was ranked as mild. The risk level of these occupational hazards at these workplaces was relatively high.

Conclusion Comprehensively considering all hazards at workplaces and use of quantitative evaluation method were appropriate to evaluate the occupational hazard risk. These guidelines are useful.