Semi-quantitative Model for Risk Assessment in University Laboratories

University chemical laboratories, contrary to common perception, are dangerous working environments. Unlike industry, where most processes are standardized, in academia, they are modified so frequently that in-depth and detailed risk assessment becomes unfeasible. A major challenge in conducting a reliable evaluation is the absence of statistical data, as there is a lack of reporting and a high diversity of the processes. Strong human involvement in all activities requires consideration of human factors in the risk assessment. A semiquantitative method that combines both easily accessible quantitative information and encoded qualitative data is the way to overcome these challenges. This work proposes a novel approach of semi-detailed risk analysis. The main advantage of this method is its applicability to a fast-changing environment with a strong presence of human factors and absence of statistical information.