Reduction of work accidents in oil refinery production fields and sample risk assessment study with L matrix method

This study was conducted to present a risk-based approach aimed at reducing occupational accidents in petroleum refinery production areas, which are known for their high hazard potential. The Hydrocracker production unit, where process safety is critically important, was taken as a case study to systematically identify and assess potential hazards. The L-Matrix Method was used as a risk assessment tool. Through this method, risk scores were calculated based on the probability and severity of each hazard, current conditions were analyzed, and changes in risk levels were tracked following the implementation of corrective and preventive actions. Within the scope of the analysis, 24 different activities and hazard categories were evaluated, including working at height, confined space operations, contact with hot surfaces and steam, exposure to hazardous chemicals such as caustic soda and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), rotating equipment, pressurized gases, and natural disasters. While the initial risk scores were mostly at the "very high" (20 points) and "high" (16 points) levels, many of these risks were successfully reduced to "medium" and "low" levels through the application of control measures. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of proactive risk management practices in preventing occupational accidents in complex and integrated production environments such as petroleum refineries. Engineering controls, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), permit-to-work systems, continuous training activities, and emergency preparedness plans play a crucial role in lowering risk levels and ensuring employee safety.