Creating and Implementing A Hazardous Drug Wipe Sampling Plan: Best Practices and Guidelines

Creating and Implementing A Hazardous Drug Wipe Sampling Plan: Best Practices and Guidelines

To effectively evaluate employee exposures to hazardous drugs (HDs), it is essential to create and implement a comprehensive HD wipe sampling to comply with USP 800 and NIOSH guidelines. A wipe sampling plan involves the collection and analysis of samples from surfaces where HDs are prepared, handled, administered, or stored. This article outlines best practices and guidelines for creating and implementing a wipe sampling plan to ensure the safety of employees.

Step 1: Review Formulary to Identify Where HDs are Handled

Every facility has a slightly different pharmaceutical formulary.  The formulary must be reviewed to identify the drugs that meet the NIOSH criteria as a HD.  Then, each HD work task/processes should be evaluated to determine if employees have potential direct and/or indirect (e.g., surface contamination) exposure through the routes of entry (absorption, inhalation, contact/ingestion). 

Step 2: Identify High-Risk Exposure Tasks/Areas

The next step in creating a wipe sampling plan is to prioritize those HD tasks and areas that pose the highest exposure risk to employees. These tasks /processes are often in, sterile compounding areas, HD administration areas, and pharmacy counters. However, consider that those HDs that are most frequently handled or dispensed may not always be the HDs the pose the highest risk of exposure to employees. 

Step 3: Develop Sampling Procedures

The next step is to develop sampling procedures that are appropriate for the surfaces associated with the high-risk tasks/areas. This includes identifying the locations where HD residues may exist, the size of the area to be sampled, and the number of samples to be taken to best represent the employees’ exposures. Additionally, the frequency of sampling should be determined based on the level of risk associated with each task/area.

Step 4: Establish Sampling Protocols

After developing sampling procedures, the next step is to establish sampling protocols. This involves identifying the personnel responsible for collecting samples, the method of sample collection and laboratory analysis, and the equipment required for sample collection. It is important to follow established guidelines for sample collection, sample handling, and storage to ensure the accuracy and reliability of results.

Step 5: Analyze Samples

Once samples have been collected, they must be analyzed by a qualified laboratory. The laboratory should have experience in analyzing hazardous drugs and be accredited to ensure that they follow established quality protocols for sample analysis. The results should be communicated to the relevant personnel, and appropriate measures should be taken if levels of hazardous drugs are found to be above acceptable limits.

Step 6: Evaluate Results

The last step in creating and implementing a wipe sampling plan is to evaluate the results obtained from the analysis of samples. This involves identifying trends and addressing potential hazards by implementing proper corrective measures. For example, if high levels of hazardous drugs are found in a particular area, additional precautions may need to be taken, such as increasing the frequency of cleaning or using additional personal protective equipment.

Best Practices for Creating and Implementing a Wipe Sampling Plan

In addition to the steps outlined above, the following best practices should be followed when creating and implementing a wipe sampling plan:

1. Involve all relevant personnel: All personnel involved in the handling and storage of hazardous drugs should be involved in the development and implementation of the wipe sampling plan.
2. Document all wipe sampling procedures: All procedures related to sample collection, handling, storage, and analysis should be documented to ensure consistency and reliability.
3. Conduct regular training: Regular training should be provided to personnel involved in the wipe sampling plan to ensure that they are aware of the procedures and protocols involved.
4. Review and update the plan: The wipe sampling plan should be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure that it is effective and in compliance with USP 800 regulations.

Conclusion

Creating and implementing an effective wipe sampling plan is essential for employers to comply with USP 800 and NIOSH guidelines and ensure the safety of employees.   By following the best practices and guidelines outlined above, healthcare facilities can establish an effective wipe sampling plan that identifies potential hazards and protects healthcare workers from exposure to hazardous drugs.

Eurofins Built Environment Testing provides Industrial Hygiene (IH) and Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) testing services to protect the health of people in built structures from a range of potentially hazardous environmental conditions. We provide a comprehensive portfolio of tests and products to meet our clients’ needs in a high quality, professional, and reliable manner. If you need any assistance with your USP800 hazardous drugs, please contact us.