Analysis of occupational injuries and the risk management of automobile parts manufacturing work

Abstract

Background. Unexpected occupational injuries frequently occur in the automobile parts manufacturing industry. This study investigates the characteristics of occupational injuries and risk management for the workers in the industry. Methods. From the national industrial accident compensation data in Korea, 1530 occupational injuries were analyzed by nature and source of injury and illness according to work process. Also, this study derived the risk management level for prioritizing preventative measures. Results. The most critical injuries were ‘ACC (amputation or caught in or crushed or compressed)’ caused by ‘misoperation or malfunction of machine and equipment’ in the ‘fabrication’ and the ‘maintenance’ processes. Possible incidents predicted as a ‘high’ level of risk management were ‘struck’ (struck by or against objects) caused by ‘misoperation or malfunction of machine and equipment’ and ACC during ‘installation of jig and mold’ in the ‘fabrication’ process. ACC during ‘maintenance’ of ‘operating jig and mold’ is also classified ‘high’. Discussion and conclusion. Using the findings of this study, effective preventative measures to reduce occupational injuries according to the risk level are suggested and discussed for automobile parts manufacturing works.