Evaluation of risk factors and occupational accidents in asphalt works in Erzurum province: Preliminary hazard analysis (PHA) and Fine–Kinney method

Approximately 2.7 billion people are employed worldwide, with a significant portion working in hazardous environments. Limited occupational health and safety (OHS) services contribute to an increase in workplace accidents and occupational diseases. Given Türkiye's high fatal accident rates compared to many European countries, the importance of OHS practices is further emphasized. OHS is a systematic approach aiming at protecting employees' physical, mental, and social well-being while preventing risks arising from the working environment. In high-risk sectors, OHS practices are vital due to the density of chemical, physical, biological, ergonomic, and psychosocial hazards. Asphalt plants are among the high-risk environments due to chemical and physical exposures arising from the production process. During the controlled mixing of aggregates with bitumen, and fillers at specific temperatures, workers face multidimensional threats including extreme heat, burn risks, bitumen fumes and smoke, noise, heavy machinery movements and ergonomic strain. Consequently, controlling chemical exposure and strengthening engineering measures and monitoring the working environment are of great importance, necessitating systematic risk assessment for effective protective applications. This thesis evaluates OHS practices through the case of Erzurum Palandöken Inc. asphalt plant. Using Preliminary Hazard Analysis (PHA) and Fine–Kinney methods, existing risks were identified, analyzed, and recommendations were developed to reduce them to acceptable levels. Based on the findings, strategies and control measures for managing risks in asphalt plants were proposed. This study is expected to contribute to the improvement of OHS practices within the asphalt production industry.