Case study: Guidelines for implementing an occupational health and safety system in companies producing alcohol-based hand sanitizer

Abstract

The production of hand sanitizers has increased considerably in recent times, mainly due to the COVID-19 pandemic experienced by the world. Many organizations are struggling difficulties in implementing and operating alcohol-based sanitizer production processes, due to the specificities of both the flammable liquid and the other raw materials used in the production process. Occupational health and safety systems can play a fundamental role in the strategic positioning and sustainable development of a company, in addition to contributing to the motivation and well-being of its employees, generating good results and competitiveness. The main goal of this work was to formulate guidelines for the implantation of a health and safety system focused mainly on the productive process of alcohol in gel, for this, a case study was carried out in a sanitizer factory. The study demonstrated that the alcohol, polymer and neutralizer used in production must be viewed carefully and the production process must adapt to the nature of these substances. In addition, the stage of elaboration of the production process must elaborate procedures and take special care in the form of storage and handling of raw materials, as these areas of the process are crucial to generate an efficient and safe production.