Environmental Contamination and Occupational Exposure of Algerian Hospital Workers

Guidelines are in place to assure limited occupational exposure to cytostatic drugs. Even though this has led to a reduction in exposure, several studies reported quantifiable concentrations of these compounds in healthcare workers. In this study, we evaluated occupational exposure to cytostatic drugs in hospital workers from the University Hospital in Tlemcen, Algeria. Monitoring was performed by collecting wipe samples from surfaces, objects, personal protective equipment (gloves and masks) and from the skin of employees at an Algerian university hospital. Wipe samples were analyzed with ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer. Concentrations ranged from below the limit of quantification up to 208.85, 23.45, 10.49, and 22.22 ng/cm² for cyclophosphamide, ifosfamide, methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil, respectively. The highest values were observed in the oncology department. Nowadays, there are still no safe threshold limit values for occupational exposure to cytostatic agents. Therefore, contamination levels should be kept as low as reasonably achievable. Yet, healthcare workers in this hospital are still exposed to cytostatic agents, despite the numerous guidelines, and recommendations. Consequently, actions should be taken to reduce the presence of harmful agents in the work environment.