[Evaluation of inhalation exposure to chemical agents in a physics laboratory using the Coshh Essentials method]

Chemical risk assessment is crucial for establishing actions that eliminate, reduce, or control the risk of occupational diseases. Traditionally, this assessment is conducted through quantitative hygienic methods, which are often costly for organizations. The COSHH Essentials methodology offers a simple and cost-effective alternative, which was applied in a physics laboratory in Colombia with the aim of evaluating inhalation risks from chemical substances. The specific hazards of a series of chemical agents were reviewed, and the potential exposure analysis was carried out, considering factors such as volatility or dustiness and the amount used, as a preliminary approach to chemical risk assessment. Four risk levels were established, allowing for the definition of actions to maintain exposure at safe levels, preventing the risk of occupational diseases caused by inhalation. This methodology can be applied in other laboratories; its qualitative approach provided a rapid and systematic assessment of potential risk, at a reduced cost.