Assessment of Hazards and Risks in a Marble Quarry

Potential hazards and risks in marble quarries in Türkiye occur as a result of various factors. These include violations of occupational safety standards, equipment failures, changes in geological structure, lack of worker training and environmental impacts. However; occupational accidents occurring in industrial environments such as marble quarries can be due to various reasons. These may include factors such as falls, equipment failures, rock falls, chemical exposures and fatigue. The L matrix risk assessment method is a management tool used in many areas of industry. This method enables prioritisation of risks by evaluating the probability and impact of the risk on a matrix. The L matrix risk assessment method determines the probability and impact of each of these factors and visualises them on a matrix. The probability and impact values are ranked from low to high and the risk level is calculated by multiplying these values. This method can be an effective tool for identifying, prioritising and managing hazards and risks in marble quarries. However, for a complete and comprehensive assessment, it is important that enterprises cooperate with experts and act in accordance with local regulations. This study analyzed the hazards and risks in a marble quarry in Türkiye with the L-type risk assessment method. The results obtained show that intolerable risks such as tipping over of heavy machinery, falling rocks and breaking off large pieces in marble quarry drilling and open pit mining areas can have fatal consequences. Other significant risks in the open pit area include elements such as machinery and equipment impact, falling parts and dust. In addition, hygiene issues were considered a significant risk in open pit and general operating areas. On the other hand, breakdowns and traffic accidents are classified in the tolerable and mild risk group. This evaluation forms an important basis for taking the necessary measures to increase occupational safety. In this context, hazards and risks in a marble quarry in Türkiye were identified and risk assessment was carried out using the L-type risk assessment method.