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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Rebecca Thomas

How NHS staff are routinely exposed to toxic chemicals

  • Tens of thousands of UK healthcare workers, including cancer nurses, are routinely exposed to toxic drugs like chemotherapy with only basic protection such as plastic aprons and gloves.
  • This inadequate personal protective equipment (PPE) has been linked to serious health issues among staff, including recurrent miscarriages, infertility, hair loss, nausea and fatigue.
  • An investigation by The Independent and Channel 4 News found that despite known risks and available safety measures, many NHS trusts are failing to provide vital protection or use closed system transfer devices.
  • A study by Professor Karen Campbell revealed 97% of nurses primarily received only plastic aprons, and the UK lags behind countries like the US in providing comprehensive protection.
  • The Royal College of Nursing is urging the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and government to implement stricter, less subjective minimum standards for handling hazardous medicines to better protect staff.

IN FULL

NHS cancer nurses exposed to toxic chemicals linked to miscarriage due to inadequate PPE

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