Comentando a NR 15 - Anexo 6 - Pressões Anormais

Summary

This video covers the essential aspects of working under hyperbaric conditions, focusing on both compressed air and underwater work. The speaker, Mario Sobral, explains how pressure affects the human body and the importance of proper decompression to avoid health risks. The video details the safety measures, medical examinations, and regulations required for workers in these high-pressure environments. It highlights the need for proper equipment, supervision, and adherence to strict safety protocols to ensure the well-being of workers involved in such specialized tasks. The video also discusses the responsibilities of employers and supervisors in maintaining safety standards.

Takeaways

• 😀 The transcript discusses the NR 15 standard, focusing on working conditions under hyperbaric pressures, including compressed air and submerged work environments.
• 😀 The risks of working in compressed air are highlighted, emphasizing the potential for body harm when pressure is not managed properly.
• 😀 Atmospheric pressure varies with altitude, and the body can face serious health issues when transitioning between different pressure levels, especially underwater.
• 😀 A key principle is that workers must undergo controlled decompression after working under higher pressures to avoid injury, such as the formation of air bubbles in the body.
• 😀 Compressed air work can only be performed within a specific pressure range, and workers are limited to a single high-pressure exposure per day.
• 😀 Specific tables are used to calculate the necessary decompression time, depending on the pressure and duration of exposure during the work.
• 😀 Workers must meet age and health requirements to work under pressure, including periodic medical exams to ensure fitness for such tasks.
• 😀 For submersible operations, both the contractor and employer have critical responsibilities in ensuring safety, emergency preparedness, and providing the necessary equipment and medical supervision.
• 😀 The employer must ensure that dive teams have proper training, up-to-date medical records, and functioning equipment before operations commence.
• 😀 Detailed planning is essential for any diving operations, including consideration of weather, sea conditions, and emergency procedures to ensure diver safety.
• 😀 Emergency procedures are in place for both surface and underwater emergencies, with a strong emphasis on rapid communication and medical response to treat diving-related issues.

Q & A

What is NR 15, and what does it cover?

NR 15 is a Brazilian safety regulation that addresses work conditions under hyperbaric environments, specifically dealing with compressed air and underwater work. It includes measures to protect workers from the hazards of working in high-pressure conditions, such as in pressurized tunnels, tubes, and submerged environments.

Why is it dangerous to work in compressed air or submerged environments?

Working in compressed air or submerged environments can be dangerous because of the increased pressure. The human body is exposed to higher than normal atmospheric pressure, which can cause health issues if not properly managed, such as decompression sickness or respiratory problems.

How does pressure affect the human body in such environments?

When a person is exposed to high pressure, the air in their body, such as in the lungs or bloodstream, is compressed. As they ascend or decompress, the pressure decreases, which can cause gases, like nitrogen, to form bubbles inside the body, potentially leading to serious health issues.

What are the key safety requirements for workers in these environments?

Workers must be over 18 and under 45 years old, undergo mandatory medical exams before and during employment, and carry identification that tracks their health status. The employer must ensure proper equipment, follow decompression protocols, and have emergency plans in place.

What is the purpose of decompression after working in high-pressure conditions?

Decompression allows the body to adjust slowly to normal pressure after being exposed to high pressure, preventing harmful effects such as decompression sickness. It involves gradually reducing the pressure in a controlled environment, following prescribed times and procedures.

What is the maximum pressure that workers can be exposed to in a compressed air environment?

Workers should not be exposed to pressures greater than 3,000 to 4,000 kilograms-force per square centimeter, except in emergency situations. This limit helps prevent severe health issues related to excessive pressure.

Why is medical observation critical for workers after high-pressure work?

Medical observation is necessary to monitor any adverse effects that may arise after exposure to high pressure. Workers must remain under medical supervision for at least two hours after decompression to ensure their health and well-being.

What is the role of the supervisor in an underwater operation?

The supervisor coordinates the dive operations, ensuring that the correct equipment is in place, overseeing safety procedures, and managing any emergencies. They are responsible for verifying that all conditions are safe before and during the operation.

What kind of medical requirements are there for divers working underwater?

Divers must undergo regular medical examinations to ensure they are fit for the job. These exams must be updated periodically and after any significant health changes. The equipment used must also meet safety standards, and diver medical records must be maintained.

How does NR 15 regulate underwater work, such as diving?

NR 15 regulates underwater work by setting out specific responsibilities for both employers and workers. It outlines requirements for medical assessments, equipment, supervision, and emergency response procedures to ensure that underwater operations are carried out safely.