Emergency Response Protocol for Hydrogen Cyanide Poisoning in the Process Plant Area at Aurelian Ecuador Mining Company.

Abstract

This article addresses the design and implementation of an emergency protocol for hydrogen cyanide (HCN) poisoning at the processing plant of the mining company Aureliano Ecuador, with the aim of strengthening prevention, response, and mitigation strategies for incidents associated with the handling of this highly toxic compound. The study is based on the recognition of the risks inherent in the use of HCN in the leaching of precious metals, where uncontrolled exposure can have fatal consequences for workers and serious environmental impacts. In the absence of specific and updated protocols in Ecuadorian mining, there is a need to establish an operational model based on national and international industrial safety regulations. The methodology applied was qualitative, based on a literature review that compiled technical, legal, and scientific information from indexed articles, ISO standards, International Cyanide Management Code guidelines, and regulations from the Ecuadorian Ministry of Labor and Environment. Based on the analysis, standardized procedures were designed that include early leak detection, safe evacuation of personnel, application of antidotes, and inter-institutional coordination with emergency response agencies. The results show that a formally structured protocol significantly improves staff responsiveness and decision-making capacity during emergency situations, reduces exposure to critical concentrations of hydrogen cyanide (HCN), and optimizes the overall management of medical and operational emergencies. In addition, ongoing and specialized training programs, the proper and consistent use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and the installation of real-time environmental monitoring systems equipped with automated alarms were identified as key factors in reducing operational risk.