Occupational Risk Management Method for Quarry Blasting Operations Based on Modified FMECA Algorithm

Occupational risk assessment is one of the most crucial legal obligation for employers and the basis of accident prevention. In the case of highly repetitive work operations and an almost constant work environment, performing a preliminary risk analysis and checking risk levels periodically may be sufficient. In the case of blasting operations in quarries: the mining and geological conditions, technology, blasting methods, explosives, and initiating agents are variables that affect occupational safety. Moreover they make occupational risk assessment difficult to apply on the operational level. Therefore, occupational risk management followed by a deep analysis of hazards and their associated risks may allow to design and manage blasting works with regard to occupational risk. The paper presents the method for the support of occupational risk management in quarry blasting operations based on a modified FMECA algorithm. The designed method provides a systematic approach to risk identification, and allows to indication of the main occupational hazards that should be prioritized for preventive action. The preventive action which could be implied in the design stage by changes in technology or work organization based on options available for a particular quarry.