Implementation of an Emergency and Accident Response Plan for Heavy Machinery Repair and/or welding of heavy machinery within the workshop or workshop or work area in Manta.

Abstract

This literature review article evaluates the relevance and benefits of implementing a comprehensive emergency and accident response plan in the repair and welding processes of heavy machinery within the workshop or work area. A descriptive-analytical methodology was employed, combining a systematic literature search (2020-2025) in Scopus, Web of Science and Science Direct with a critical examination of ISO 45001, NFPA 51B and current Ecuadorian regulations. The evidence indicates that welding operations simultaneously generate ultraviolet radiation, metal fumes, flammable atmospheres and electrical-discharge hazards—factors that increase the incidence of disabling injuries when no formal response plan is in place. Reviewed studies report up to 70 % reductions in contaminant concentrations and more than 60 % decreases in accident frequency after deploying engineering controls, hot work permits and immersive training programmers. Cost-benefit analysis shows returns of four dollars for every dollar invested in prevention, derived from fewer unplanned shutdowns, lower accident rates and reduced insurance premiums. In addition, the integration of IoT sensors and cross-plant audits strengthens continuous improvement and places companies in the upper quartile of safety performance within the metal-mechanic sector. It is concluded that the adoption of an emergency plan contextualized to the workshop or workplace not only meets legal requirements, but also constitutes a strategic factor for operational sustainability, occupational health and regional competitiveness. Future work should focus on integrating predictive analytics to forecast equipment failures, expanding the sensor network to include ozone and nitrogen-dioxide detection, and reinforcing psychosocial risk management to sustain the preventive culture achieved through this multifaceted intervention within the workforce over time.