Chemical Risk in Hospitals: An Overview of Monitoring Strategies and International Regulatory Practical Concerns

Abstract

Chemical risk in hospital settings is an increasing worry that health professionals and regulatory bodies must address on a daily basis. Chemical risk exposure varies depending on the hospital department and can result from a variety of causes, including the use of sterilizing agents, disinfectants, detergents, solvents, heavy metals, toxic medications, and anesthetic gases. Strengthening preventative methods and continuously monitoring the presence and level of potentially harmful compounds in employees (biological monitoring) and working surroundings (environmental monitoring) may minimize the risk of exposure and contamination dramatically. The goal of this article is to provide an overview of the current international legislation, the chemical pollutants to which medical and paramedical staff are mostly exposed, and the techniques devised to combat them. Key Word: Risk assessment; Occupational medicine; Environmental monitoring; Biological monitoring; Sampling techniques