Occupational Risks of Formaldehyde in the Human Anatomy Amphitheater at the National University of Cajamarca

Abstract

The working conditions in the Human Anatomy Amphitheater pose significant health risks for faculty, students, and staff. The lack of personal protective equipment, a provisional environment without minimal safety conditions, absence of basic services, inadequate ventilation, and inappropriate location of the anatomical material storage contribute to a hazardous work environment. In this regard, this study aimed to assess the levels of formaldehyde vapor concentration in the Human Anatomy Amphitheater. A clinical evaluation of the amphitheater users was conducted using a Formaldehyde Concentration Table. It was determined that the Formaldehyde Vapor Concentration levels exceed the Maximum Permissible Value of 0.05 ppm. Additionally, the time spent by users in the Human Anatomy Amphitheater exceeds 2 continuous hours, surpassing the maximum recommended time by the WHO, without taking the suggested 20-minute break in an environment laden with toxic vapors. Furthermore, the improper management of formaldehyde waste, by omitting pretreatment with decontaminants such as Sodium Bisulfite, contributes to the spread of harmful effects and environmental pollution. It is crucial to emphasize that the workplace is adjacent to administrative offices and classrooms, violating safety regulations for handling toxic chemicals. Consequently, it is evident that working conditions in the Human Anatomy Amphitheater are precarious, leading to significant environmental contamination due to formaldehyde toxic vapors, posing a high occupational risk, especially for the health of those utilizing this space.