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Glutaraldehyde--controlling the risk to health
The British Journal of Theatre Nursing : Natnews : the Official Journal of the National Association of Theatre Nurses
|February 1, 1995
Summary
Workplaces often fail to fully implement the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations, neglecting risk assessment and control measures for hazardous chemicals. This oversight, particularly with glutaraldehyde in endoscope cleaning, poses significant health risks.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Chemical Risk Management
- Workplace Health Surveillance
Background:
- The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulation 1988 mandates risk assessment and control for hazardous substances in the workplace.
- A 1993 survey revealed widespread non-compliance, with many organizations collecting safety data sheets but failing to implement subsequent risk evaluation, monitoring, and control measures.
- Specific deficiencies in controlling glutaraldehyde exposure during endoscope cleaning were identified by the Health and Safety Executive in an NHS Trust.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the critical importance of comprehensive COSHH compliance in workplace health and safety.
- To identify common shortcomings in the implementation of health and safety legislation.
- To draw attention to the specific risks associated with glutaraldehyde in healthcare settings, particularly operating theatres.
Main Methods:
- Review of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulation 1988 requirements.
- Analysis of findings from an evaluation survey conducted in mid-1993 assessing workplace compliance.
- Examination of an inspection report by the Health and Safety Executive concerning an NHS Trust's handling of hazardous substances.
Main Results:
- Many workplaces were found to be non-compliant with COSHH, primarily by collecting hazard data without proceeding to risk assessment, exposure monitoring, or implementing control measures.
- A significant lack of effective control over glutaraldehyde exposure in endoscope cleaning activities was observed.
- Deficiencies in health surveillance and employee training regarding hazardous substances were noted.
Conclusions:
- Effective implementation of COSHH requires more than just data collection; it necessitates a proactive approach to risk assessment, control, and surveillance.
- Glutaraldehyde presents particular challenges in healthcare environments, demanding stringent control measures to protect staff.
- There is an ongoing need for rigorous enforcement and education to ensure workplace safety legislation translates into effective health protection.