Hazardous Chemicals
Potential Hazard
Employees can be exposed to possible hazardous chemicals found and used in the surgical area typically during mixing, preparation, and in the operating room. These may include:
- peracetic acid used in cold sterilant machines
- Methyl Methacrylate (MMA)
- an acrylic cement-like substance used to secure prostheses to bone during orthopedic surgery waste anesthetic gases
Possible Solutions
- Mix methyl methacrylate only in a closed system.
- Carefully read and follow instructions and warnings on labels, (e.g., when using cold sterilant machines for sterilizating equipment that cannot be autoclaved, use goggles provided and do not open machine until it is in a safe to open mode).
- Consider using disinfectants or other products that are not hazardous.
- Inform employees of chemical hazards and have on hand Safety Data Sheets, (SDS) for all hazardous chemicals used in their facilities.
- Follow all SDS instructions regarding safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous chemicals.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-4. What should be readily available for all hazardous chemicals used in a surgical suite?
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