Propuesta de mejora para la implementación de un puesto de control de seguridad y salud ocupacional para visitantes y personal de una empresa de generación eléctrica en la ciudad del Coca.

Abstract

The impact on a power generation company in Coca, Ecuador, was evaluated after implementing an occupational health and safety (OHS) checkpoint to mitigate workplace risks related to human error and unsafe conditions. The intervention was based on the hierarchy of controls, the GSCS/OPOS model, and national laws, emphasizing preventive screening before the start of operations. A quasiexperimental (before/after) design was used with a census sample of workers, contractors, and visitors. Direct observation, checklists, document recording, a minisurvey, and brigade forms were used to evaluate five aspects: breathalyzer tests, visibility of the safety panel, understanding of instructions, brigade functionality, and risk perception. Participation included modifications to the checkpoint, signage, an information panel, breathalyzer tests, brigade training, and distribution of educational materials. The results show significant progress in: breathalyzer testing (0%–95%), safety panel (0%–100%), understanding of rules (20%–85%), operational teams (0%–90%), and risk perception (15%–80%). There was a 65% increase in safe behaviors, and the state's response was stronger, establishing the booth as an active preventative barrier. It is concluded that the control range decreases the probability of workplace incidents by promoting a preventative culture, standardizing safe access, and optimizing incident response, thus confirming the initial hypothesis. The design can be adapted for use in other critical industrial sites in the energy sector.