Waste Anesthetic Gases (WAGS)

Waste anesthetic gases (WAGs) are small amounts of volatile aesthetic gases that leak into the air of an operating room during the delivery of aesthesia to a human or animal patient. These gases may also be exhaled by patients recovering from anesthesia. Common WAGs can include nitrous oxide, halothane, enflurane, isoflurane, desflurane, and sevoflurane. Occupational exposure to these gases by health care providers can result in acute side effects such as dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, fatigue, headache, and depression. Chronic exposure to these gases can result in liver and kidney diseases, birth defects, and miscarriages.

The United States National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends threshold limit values to minimize health risks. Employers are encouraged to implement of WAG Surveillance Program by annually check room ventilation and chemical exposure to these gases in order to protect all of its employees and patients, including sensitive/vulnerable populations. In addition, if anesthesia equipment was moved, newly installed or never surveyed a survey is recommended.

FACTORS THAT CAN CONTRIBUTE TO EXPOSURE:

• Leakage from tubing, seals and gaskets
• Work practices/lack of training
• Poor ventilation
• Ineffective scavenging systems
• Not weighing and changing out charcoal canisters per manufacturer’s recommendations

INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE EXPOSURE MONITORING

• Area and Personal Exposure Air Monitoring
• Monitoring WAGs Exposure of Each Job Task
• Ensures Engineering Controls are Effective
• Required per Current Regulations

REPORTING AND COMPLIANCE

• Analytical Data Explained by our Experts
• Provides Specific Recommendations based on Analytical Data
• Develop WAGs Exposure Control Plan
• Develop Recommendations for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Engineering Controls

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