INTRODUCTION: The widespread use of technology and automated equipment in clinical laboratories has allowed to expand analysis capacity and information processing significantly. However, it has also augmented the use of chemical reagents in analyses, generating waste that, if improperly disposed, may cause serious environmental damage. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the knowledge and awareness of clinical laboratory professionals as to the potential environmental damage caused by chemical waste, adopted forms of disposal, and interest in receiving related information. METHODS: Interviews were conducted in a structured questionnaire in order to assess the total number of blood tests performed in the city of Curitiba and the forms of waste disposal generated by automated equipment. They were also developed to infer professionals' knowledge regarding solution development, recommended ways of disposal, and potential environmental hazard. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The vast majority (80%) of professionals in clinical laboratories believes to be responsible for the produced waste, but has no knowledge on the issue. This unawareness generates inadequate practices in 47% of surveyed laboratories, which discard waste directly into the sewer system. In order to avoid biological contamination, 20% of the laboratories treat their waste with sodium hypochlorite before disposal into the sewer system, and only 12% have sewage treatment, though its type is unknown.
Chemical residue; Hematology; Awareness; Environmental damage
