Hazardous substances in general medical practitioner surgeries

Abstract

General medical practitioner staff routinely handle a variety of chemical products, such as therapeutics, disinfectants and domestic chemicals. Although hazardous substances regulations are applicable to surgeries, British data and local anecdotal evidence suggest a lack of awareness. A survey of 11 general practitioner (GP) surgeries was conducted in South Australia to assess the exposure profile and the implications for management. Chemical management systems were largely non-existent, and considerable difficulty was encountered in obtaining material safety data sheets from suppliers. However, many therapeutics are non-hazardous and the quantity and manner of substance use would suggest that only a few tasks, such as the handling and storage of disinfectants, cleaning agents and pesticides, entail appreciable risk. In order to comply with regulations and increase awareness, medical practitioners need simple guidance disseminated through GP newsletters.