Avaliação das condições de segurança na operação de caldeiras a vapor

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of steam boilers in companies from both, southwestern Paraná and western Santa Catarina states; concerning installation conditions and operating procedures, based on the regulatory standard code (NR 13), of the Brazilian Ministry of Labor; in order to obtain precise information about the current situation regarding the safe operation of boilers. Processes concerning the use of steam boilers comprise fluids with several pressures and temperatures. Thus, such operation is considered as a quite dangerous activity since it may cause harm to people and the environment when devices are not handled under proper security standards. The operation of steam boilers implies the presence of various risks such as explosions, fire, electric shock, poisoning, falls, serious injuries and death. Most of times, accidents occur due to lack of attention to the water level, poor operation, lack of control of the burning of woody materials, inadequate facilities and repairs, lack of training, lack of attention to the treatment of water, unregulated meters; all caused by human failings. The study approach consisted on qualitative exploratory method. Conditions, facilities and procedures of the operation of boilers were evaluated through checklists developed according with relevant legislation, as well as through the assessment of the knowledge of operators and supervisors. From the assessment, it was observed that the owners of the researched companies are trying to get the requisites concerning the safe operation of boilers; however, some items need to be implemented because not all operators have the qualification and training to perform the activities, and there are some operators who are still overlooking the risks that the activity represents. A contributing factor to problems of this extent is the misinformation, since accidents with boilers are revealed in a smaller number when compared with other labor accidents. Other factor that might contribute to the non-compliance with the applicable standard is the lack of surveillance by the regulating bodies. The recent revision of NR 13, April 2014, has strengthened the security issue on the operation of steam boilers. Failures of complying with any items of the mentioned rule may bring imminent risks such as accidents or occupational diseases. Therefore, one concludes that there is an urgent need for consciousness by employers and employees, that this activity is extremely dangerous and it needs to be operated efficiently and safely to avoid accidents and, often, irreparable harm to workers, as well as considerable financial losses to the establishment.