Reducing workplace cytotoxic surface contamination using a closed-system drug transfer device

Background. The potential for staff exposure to antineoplastic agents exists in the workplace despite current recommended safe handling procedures. Reliance on cytotoxic drug safety cabinets (CDSC) to provide total protection from exposure to hazardous drugs is insufficient. Preventing workplace contamination is the best strategy to minimise exposure. PhaSeal® is a commercially available system for ensuring the leak-free transfer of hazardous drugs, fitting both the NIOSH and ISOPP definitions of a closed system. To date, there have been no published studies examining the use of a closed system drug transfer device (PhaSeal®) under Australian conditions.The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of a closed system drug transfer device on cytotoxic surface contamination in the cytotoxic preparation areas of two Australian metropolitan public hospitals.Method. This was a pre- and post-intervention study in which chemical contamination was tested at baseline then at five and 12 months after the int...