Assessment of Chemical Hazards in Hospital Workplaces during the Summer Period

Abstract

Workplace exposure to gaseous chemical pollutants represents a significant occupational health concern in healthcare environments, particularly in large clinical centers where diverse chemical agents are used and emitted. In this study, we provide a comprehensive assessment of chemical hazards in selected workplaces at the Public University Clinical Center of the Republic of Srpska in Banja Luka during the summer period. The results indicate pervasive exceedances of regulatory reference values for acrolein (C₃H₄O) and localized exceedances for nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), suggesting potential occupational relevance in specific areas. Exploratory factor analysis identified six components explaining approximately 79% of the total variance, indicating multiple partially overlapping emission sources. Correlation analysis revealed structured associations among several reactive and aromatic pollutants, pointing to common controlling processes. Differences between operating rooms and other areas were statistically significant for CO₂, CH₄, isopropanol (C₃H₈O), and acetone ((CH₃)₂CO). The findings highlight the spatial heterogeneity and activity-driven nature of chemical exposure in hospital environments and support the need for integrated monitoring approaches to improve occupational health risk management. The study contributes to a better understanding of chemical exposure patterns in hospital environments and provides a basis for future risk management and occupational health interventions.