Risk Assessment of the Working Environment in the Central Supply Department of the Hospital

Abstract

This study aimed to identify hazards and assess environmental risks in the working conditions of the Central Supply Department of a hospital in Chonburi Province. The research employed a descriptive cross-sectional design. The study population and sample comprised the Central Supply Department, which was assessed for its working environment, and seven purposively selected staff members. Data were collected using the Job Safety Analysis (JSA) method and analyzed according to the Ministry of Industry’s 2000 Regulation on Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, and Risk Management Planning. Hazards were identified using safety analysis techniques for each step of the work process, with scores assigned for the likelihood and severity of events in the risk assessment.

            The results revealed that the Central Supply Department working environment presented 12 risk items across seven work process steps. Two items were classified as high risk (8 points): bloodborne pathogen exposure and chemical exposure (e.g., ethylene oxide). Six items were considered acceptable risks (4 points), and four items were minor risks (2 points). It was recommended to develop and implement a risk reduction and control plan in accordance with preventive measures and improvement strategies, as well as to promote safe work practices and good occupational health among personnel, in order to reduce the likelihood of accidents and occupational illnesses in the Central Supply Department.