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Related Experiment Videos

Anaesthetic pollution. Potential sources, their identification and control

J P Barker1, M O Abdelatti

  • 1Edgware General Hospital, Middlesex, UK.

Anaesthesia
|December 24, 1997
PubMed
Summary

Anaesthetic gas pollution in operating rooms stems from various sources beyond the breathing system. Identifying and controlling these leaks using infra-red analyzers is crucial for protecting healthcare worker health.

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Area of Science:

  • Occupational Health
  • Environmental Health
  • Anesthesiology

Background:

  • Anaesthetic gases can escape into the operating room environment from multiple sources, not just the anaesthetic breathing system.
  • Regulations like COSHH and OES mandate risk assessment and control of anaesthetic exposure for healthcare workers.
  • Scavenging equipment, while installed, may not be fully effective in controlling anaesthetic pollution.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify and assess controllable sources of anaesthetic gas pollution in an operating theatre.
  • To evaluate the effectiveness of current pollution control measures.
  • To recommend methods for improving the control of anaesthetic pollution.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized an infra-red analyser for leak testing and background monitoring during an initial COSHH assessment.

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  • Investigated various potential pollution sources including vaporiser filling, induction techniques, face mask leaks, and equipment integrity.
  • Monitored specific areas such as gas outlets and connections within the anaesthetic system.

    • Main Results:

    • Identified several controllable sources of anaesthetic gas pollution, including ill-fitting face masks, loose breathing system connections, and laryngeal mask leaks.
    • Detected a significant leak of nitrous oxide (N2O) near a multigas monitor's unscavenged gas outlet.
    • Highlighted that pollution sources remote from scavenging equipment can contribute to ineffective pollution control.

    Conclusions:

    • Infra-red leak testing is an effective method for identifying hidden sources of anaesthetic gas pollution.
    • Many identified pollution sources are amenable to control and remedy, improving occupational safety.
    • Recommendations include implementing regular leak testing to enhance the management of anaesthetic gas exposure.