|
|
|
Messages Forum>
OR PLUME-ARE WE COMPLIANT WITH OSHA REGULATIONS?
Gaviser
1 post
Dec 29, 2011
8:06 AM
|
In our operating rooms, a plume(smoke) is often produced by the use of cautery & laser.
Since it has been demonstrated that there is viable HIV and human papilloma virus (HPV) within the Plume, I have two questions: 1) how can I be be sure we are in compliance with OSHA? and 2) How can I be certain our doctors and nurses are safe in our operating room?
Thanks
James Gaviser, MD
Last Edited on 29-Dec-2011 8:07 AM
|
thomaskappil
56 posts
Dec 29, 2011
6:45 PM
|
Dear Dr Gaviser,
Thank you for writing to us.
OSHA’s laser safety standard 29 CFR 1910.97(a) has addressed the issue of laser plume. Since it is a serious issue for employees, National Institute of Safety and Health (NIOSH) has recommended two effective ways to control it. They are:
• Ventilation
• Work Practices
VENTILATION
Recommended ventilation techniques include a combination of general room and local exhaust ventilation (LEV). General room ventilation is not by itself sufficient to capture contaminants generated at the source. The two major LEV approaches used to reduce surgical smoke levels for health care personnel are portable smoke evacuators and room suction systems.
WORK PRACTICES
The smoke evacuator or room suction hose nozzle inlet must be kept within 2 inches of the surgical site to effectively capture airborne contaminants generated by these surgical devices. The smoke evacuator should be ON (activated) at all times when airborne particles are produced during all surgical or other procedures. At the completion of the procedure all tubing, filters, and absorbers must be considered infectious waste and be disposed appropriately. New filters and tubing should be installed on the smoke evacuator for each procedure. While there are many commercially available smoke evacuator systems to select from, all of these LEV systems must be regularly inspected and maintained to prevent possible leaks. Users must also utilize control measures such as "universal precautions," as required by the OSHA Blood-Borne Pathogen standard.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at no cost to your employees must be worn to ensure they are safe while operating laser equipment. Protective equipment for laser safety generally means eye protection in the form of goggles or spectacles, clothing, and barriers and other devices designed for laser protection.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to write to us.
Thomas
|
|
|
