Riesgos de trabajo en el Herbario de la Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja

Abstract

Abstract: Occupational risk factors in workplaces can significantly impact the health of workers in various companies, as well as in research areas such as herbariums. An herbarium is a physical space where a collection of dried botanical plant samples is kept, organized based on a specific classification system, and stored under controlled conditions. Mechanical, physical, biological, ergonomic, and chemical risks were identified based on the INSST method, which evaluates occupational risks (high, medium, or low) based on the likelihood and severity of harm. According to the INSST method, the HUTPL Herbarium shows higher levels of chemical and mechanical risks, followed by physical, biological, and ergonomic risks. The overall average noise level in the seven areas of the HUTPL Herbarium was 47.83 dB, within the established limits (70 dB). On the other hand, the average light level was 384.29 lux, within the established limits (500 lux), but in the disinfection and fungal collection areas, it exceeds the threshold value.