A Quantitative Approach of Risk Management in Laboratories: Treating the risk or treating the area?

This study aims to conduct a comprehensive risk assessment of the pressure laboratories at the National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology (Inmetro), emphasizing the strategic importance of effective risk control to ensure quality across the entire national metrology chain. The research acknowledges the inherent challenges of these technical environments and proposes, as an alternative to immediate solutions, the systematic reduction of the probability of specific risks. In certain cases, a holistic approach is recommended, involving the integrated management of entire areas rather than isolated, individual actions. A total of 66 risks were identified, distributed across six distinct areas. The environmental area proved to be the most critical, with approximately 75% of its risks classified as having high probability and significant impact. In light of this, the study suggests the adoption of broad and structured strategies for its management. In contrast, the measurement and machinery areas exhibited fewer high-level risks, making them more suitable for traditional risk-by-risk management approaches. The areas related to personnel, materials, and methodology presented average risk values ranging from 9.8 to 10.4, allowing for greater flexibility in the choice of control strategies, depending on the organizational structure. This research provides valuable contributions to the field of risk management in laboratory environments, offering methodological and practical insights for institutions facing similar challenges. By advocating the careful use of risk matrices and the adoption of integrated approaches when necessary, the study reinforces the importance of robust, preventive practices tailored to the specific operational context.