Análisis del sistema de seguridad y salud en el trabajo en la Hacienda Patricia. Identificación de deficiencias y propuestas de mejora para optimizar las condiciones laborales.

Abstract

This research focuses on Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) management in the banana sector, a highly important productive area in which worker well-being and business sustainability depend on strict regulatory compliance. Through a case study at Hacienda Patricia, located in the province of Santa Elena, significant deficiencies in the implementation of OSH were identified, compromising the health and safety of the workforce and generating considerable risks. The study applied a mixed methodology and used stratified random sampling to survey 171 workers for the quantitative approach, accompanied by a qualitative approach determined by an exhaustive documentary analysis of relevant regulations such as Ministerial Agreement MDT-2024-196, Decree 255, and ISO 45001, as well as internal records from the treasury. The main findings reveal a critical situation due to the low percentage of regulatory compliance, the low level of OSH knowledge among workers, and a high incidence of occupational risks and accidents. To address this problem, six proactive improvement strategies are proposed that are designed to align with regulations, with the aim of transforming the safety culture, ensuring the well-being of workers, and promoting sustainability at Hacienda Patricia.