Industrial Chemical Accidents: An Urban Creeping HSE Hazard in Iran

Introduction: Iran is experiencing the process of industrialization rapidly and is exposed to chemical hazards. In June and August 2015, three large explosions happened at chemical warehouses in Ray, Tehran Province, Iran. The aim of this article was to define the most conformities and nonconformities with International Health Regulation (IHR)in the surveyed area. Methods: This study conducted in 2015. Using Secondary data and field visits from chemical warehouses in the area under study were the methods of data collection in this study. The sampling method for warehouses was random. The 43 item checklist which was adjusted by the researchers was completed during each field visit. Results: The main challenges for mitigating the impacts of chemical incidents were related to the lack of an effective surveillance system for chemical accidents and low level of safety in chemical warehouses. Other main weaknesses included the lack of residents’ awareness about the hazards of chemicals and unequipped health centers for the management of the victims of chemical accidents. Conclusion: The research area was not prepared against chemical accidents both in industrial and residential areas. Further studies of human vulnerability are needed for improving the weaknesses and providing the essential capacities according to IHR.

Keywords:

Chemical hazards , Warehouse , International Health Regulation