Protecting workers from contamination and exposure to hazardous medicinal products, and the potential health effects

The manufacture and handling of hazardous medicinal products (HMPs) pose significant safety and health risks to workers due to the potential for contamination and exposure. These products, often used in chemotherapy, antiviral treatments and other critical therapies, can have harmful health effects if not properly managed.

A European Commission (2021) study identified nurses as the largest single occupational group exposed to HMPs, comprising 40% of those affected, followed by technicians (11%) and pharmacists (9%). Traditionally, there has been a focus on the exposure of pharmacy staff due to the high concentration of HMPs in preparation.

However, it is now more urgent than ever to shift the focus to prevention and on the protection from occupational exposure of cancer nurses who deliver HMPs in outpatient and inpatient settings. Exposure to HMPs can result in a range of acute and chronic health issues, and can have a significant life-changing health impact. The European Commission (2021) estimates that, in Europe, about 7.3 million nurses are potentially affected by exposure to such dangerous substances every year.