Oxygen deficiency hazard in confined spaces in the steel industry: assessment through predictive models

Abstract

Objective. In the steel industry, performing activities in confined spaces where potential oxygen displacement can occur may expose workers to fatal consequences. To the best of our knowledge, no quantitative exposure assessment of oxygen deficiency in steel industry confined spaces is available in the literature. To overcome this gap, we performed oxygen deficiency hazard (ODH) assessments in real confined spaces using two existing models to identify the most critical parameters responsible for ODH, and suggest controls for mitigating the asphyxiation risk. Methods. We applied a well-mixed model and a near field–far field approach to estimate the indoor oxygen level with time during and following release of simple asphyxiants. Model inputs were mainly gathered thanks to audits and instrumental tests in three firms. Results. The most severe ODH exposures are posed in spaces with restricted volume and where accidental releases of inert gases can occur. Such exposures can be controlled through early release detections and augmented reality systems. Conclusions. ODH assessments in confined spaces of steel firms allow the identification of the most critical parameters from an oxygen depletion perspective, focusing on which data need careful measurement, and help to establish controls compatible with the operations conducted in these areas.

Keywords:

• oxygen depletion
• oxygen displacement
• asphyxiation risk
• inert gas
• argon
• furnace
• welding
• steel industry

Acknowledgements

The authors thank Alessandro Fiorese, Marina La Vecchia, Marcello Gelfi, the steel companies, and the plant and component manufacturers that provided useful details, explanations, technical data and information. They would like to thank the anonymous reviewers for their feedback and comments that greatly contributed to improve the article.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.