ENVIRONMENTAL RISK ANALYSIS: A CASE STUDY OF THE MICROBIOLOGY LABORATORY OF A HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTION, MARABÁ, PARÁ, BRAZIL

Abstract

In teaching and research institutions, where there is a high circulation of researchers, students, and technicians, various risks are evident due to the handling of biological materials, sharps, and/or chemical substances, as well as the use of different laboratory equipment. However, studies addressing risks in laboratories of teaching and research institutions and their associated factors are scarce in the scientific literature. In this context, this study aimed to analyze environmental risks in the Microbiology Laboratory of a Higher Education Institution in Marabá, Pará, Brazil. The research employed the deductive method, with a qualitative scope, applied nature, and exploratory procedure. The method was associated with bibliographic and documentary data collection, in which secondary data were obtained from specialized links and open-access databases, while primary data were obtained through visits to the laboratory, during which the activities carried out were observed over a period of three months. The data indicated the presence of the main groups of environmental risks in the laboratory, including physical, chemical, biological, ergonomic, and accident-related risks, with some presenting low risk potential. Nevertheless, ergonomic and accident-related risks were particularly significant, mainly due to chairs without backrests and exposure to UV light and autoclaves, respectively. In this regard, certain safety measures could reduce exposure to hazards, such as the acquisition of more ergonomic seating, enclosure of the UV light hood and autoclaves, expanded use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety signage, and the implementation of an Incident and Accident Log.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2026.011-013