Redesigning the Grossing Station: A Biomedical Approach to Safer Formaldehyde Handling in Anatomical Pathology
Meike Rachmawati, Wida Purbaningsih, Meta Maulida Damayanti, Iman Apriana Effendi, Faradilla Azzahra Dinariansyah, Fathin Azimati Nadila, Ismawati, Nugraha Nugraha, Aninditya Putri Anugrah, Fattahrani Fattahrani, Reyiena Kusumaryani Rahmat

Universitas Islam Bandung

Abstract

Formalin, a widely used tissue fixative in anatomical pathology laboratories, poses significant health risks due to its formaldehyde content. This study aimed to develop a cost-effective, ergonomically designed grossing station equipped with an exhaust system to reduce formaldehyde exposure among laboratory personnel. A quasi-experimental design was employed to assess the effectiveness of various exhaust configurations. The prototype workstation was constructed using corrosion-resistant stainless steel and featured integrated ventilation with a total airflow capacity of 325 CFM. Formaldehyde exposure was measured using an air quality detector across three configurations: (1) no exhaust systems active, (2) room exhaust only, and (3) both room and grossing station exhausts active. Exposure levels were recorded at different times of the day and analyzed using TWA and STEL metrics, benchmarked against OSHA, NIOSH, and ACGIH standards. Results showed a significant reduction in formaldehyde concentration when both exhaust systems were active, with TWA and STEL values remaining below OSHA thresholds, though still exceeding the more stringent limits set by NIOSH and ACGIH. The findings support the effectiveness of integrated local exhaust ventilation in reducing exposure, while also highlighting the need for further refinement in ducting and air intake systems. This research provides a practical and scalable solution to enhance safety in pathology laboratories, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Keywords: Pathology anatomy, grossing station, exhaust system, formaldehyde

Topic: Biomedical Engineering