Fortalecimiento del sistema integrado de gestión de laboratorios, en la empresa universidad pedagógica y tecnológica de Colombia uptc - Tunja

Abstract

The Pedagogical and Technological University of Colombia – UPTC, was established in 1953 and currently has its main campus in the city of Tunja, Boyacá. UPTC is a public higher education institution, which has made it an academic and scientific pillar both in the region and throughout the country. It stands out for its strong commitment to training high-quality professionals oriented towards innovation and sustainable development—qualities that have enabled it to be certified under international standardized norms such as ISO 9001 for quality management systems, ISO 14001 for environmental management, and ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety, among others. Within the context of institutional commitments to academic excellence and environmental sustainability, this project is established as a significant support effort to strengthen the Integrated Management System (SIG) in the laboratories of the Pedagogical and Technological University of Colombia. The project focuses on environmental management and occupational health and safety, aiming to improve the administrative processes of the laboratories, ensure the integrity of scientific activities, and comply with all required regulatory standards. During the internship, the SIG professional supporting the Laboratory Management Process is responsible for key tasks such as the preparation of technical and administrative documents, drafting inspection visit reports, hazardous waste management, updating environmental impact and occupational health and safety (OHS) matrices, and supporting environmental programs related to efficient water and energy use, environmental management, and chemical substances, among other activities aimed at minimizing environmental impacts and ensuring continuous improvement in university processes. Specific activities also include updating the hazard identification, risk assessment, and OHS control determination matrix; identifying critical equipment and tools; conducting signage inspections and laboratory safety inspections; reviewing chemical substance inventories, emergency systems, first-aid kits, and environmental kits. Furthermore, support for the industrial hygiene process includes organizing and assisting with hygiene measurements (such as sound level measurements, particulate matter, light intensity, organic vapors, etc.) in the laboratories, as well as preparing a training schedule for the staff. As a result, a significant improvement in environmental and safety management in UPTC laboratories is expected, in compliance with current regulations and with more precise and accessible documentation of the implemented activities and measures. This project also aims to comprehensively strengthen laboratory professionals by supporting each of the university’s processes in pursuit of a safer and more sustainable educational environment. This work is carried out under the guidance of ISO 14001, 9001, and 45001 standards, ensuring that the actions and methods applied during the internship contributed to strengthening UPTC’s culture of quality, prevention, and sustainability.