Propuesta de diseño de control para exposición a sustancias químicas en una cabina de pulverización en un taller de pintura

Exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs), isocyanates, and particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10) in paint shops poses significant occupational health risks, causing respiratory issues, occupational asthma, and chronic diseases. This study, conducted in a paint shop in Valencia, Ecuador, evaluated the conditions of a spray booth to propose a control system to mitigate chemical exposure. Over two weeks, 210 environmental measurements were performed using calibrated sensors (PMS3003, MQ-7), obtaining average concentrations of 9.5 mg/m³ for VOCs, 30 µg/m³ for PM2.5, and 55 µg/m³ for PM10, exceeding regulatory limits in 35%, 30%, and 25% of cases, respectively. Contamination peaks, observed at midday, align with spraying activities. Low-toxicity paints are used in 70% of processes, and 70% of workers use personal protective equipment (PPE), though 85% perceive ventilation as sufficient, contradicting the detected exceedances. Accumulated HEPA filter clogging (55%) and the extractor at 75% capacity reflect technical deficiencies. A proposed control system includes a 0.5 HP extractor with an 80 ft/min capture velocity, quarterly HEPA filter maintenance, 90% use of water-based paints (zinc carbonate-based), monthly chemical risk training, and continuous IoT monitoring (PMS3003, MQ-7, Grafana). These measures reduce respiratory risks, comply with Ecuadorian regulations, and promote a sustainable work environment, with scalable applications to other workshops in resource-limited contexts.