Evaluation of environmental impacts in a physical chemical analysis laboratory for fuels

Abstract

Organizations have an impact on the environment and in turn can be affected by it. To achieve effective environmental management, organizations must identify the elements of their activities, products and services that interact or may interact with the environment, which is defined as an environmental aspect. The objective of the research consisted of diagnosing the environmental aspects and impacts of a physical chemical analysis laboratory for fuels in order to contribute to the improvement of its environmental management. The entrances, exits, emergencies and risks in each activity of the laboratory were analyzed. The evaluation of the impact associated with the identified environmental aspects was carried out according to the methodological guide prepared by Conesa. The diagnosis made contacted that the environmental management of the laboratory is not adequate. The most significant environmental aspects were the emission of gases, the improper handling of chemical products and the generation of toxic and dangerous waste. An action program was designed to minimize the negative impacts generated by the laboratory, totally prevent the occurrence of negative environmental impacts, as well as implement an environmental management system.