Electrical hazards incurred when using anti-static anaesthetic hose

The following paper describes the presence of a potential hazard when anaesthetic anti-static rubber elephant tubing is connected between electrical equipment with a metal case, and a patient. The conductive properties of this tubing are shown to increase as temperature rises and to be permanently changed when the tubing is exposed to standard autoclaving procedures. Reasons for changes in conductivity are discussed in detail, and two solutions are offered enabling the patient to be protected against large leakage currents, yet retaining the anti-static properties of the gas circuit.