Occupational Health and Safety Risk Assessment and Mitigation in Chemistry Laboratories: A Case Study of Iğdır University

Abstract

Encountering potential hazards in the work environment is a natural consequence of work life. Workplaces must take all safety precautions to protect the health of employees. Selecting appropriate experimental studies in a chemistry laboratory and adhering to Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) rules contribute to the development of chemistry education. Nowadays, both teaching staff and students experience deficiencies in their teaching areas and professional literature, and it is necessary to continually maintain studies in line with modernization and OHS principles in the education process. In this study, an OHS risk assessment was conducted in Iğdır University Chemistry laboratories, and potential risks were identified, and the necessary measures were assessed in accordance with regulations. The importance of continuous training in the field of OHS for employees was emphasized. A total of 52 risks were identified in the laboratories in the study, 31 of which required immediate action. 13 risks were of medium severity and required planning for their elimination, and 8 risks were found to be acceptable. The risk assessment not only reveals what measures are needed for management but also contributes to a significant increase in motivation.

Keywords

• Occupational risks
• health and safety
• chemical laboratory

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