The pharmaceutical industry faces at least five distinct hazards that employers and employees should be aware of:
Flammable and Combustible Materials
Combustible and flammable materials present within pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities can cause uncontrolled fires, leading to extensive and often costly property damage. Accidents involving flammable materials can also lead to serious and potentially fatal worker injury (e.g., burns, smoke inhalation).
Hazardous Chemicals
Working with, handling, transporting, and storing chemicals is a primary component of the pharmaceutical manufacturer’s workday. Many chemicals used in both primary and secondary processing can be extremely hazardous to human health if accidentally ingested or inhaled.
Biological Hazards
The pharmaceutical industry continues to make rapid advances in the prevention and treatment of infectious pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. To drive this innovation, pharmaceutical workers, scientists, and researchers must routinely handle these hazardous organisms, along with any chemicals and materials needed for the development of vaccines and other types of medicines.
To reduce the risk of accidental exposure to biological hazards, tightly controlled primary and secondary containment methods should be utilized. These methods include even the simplest strategies, such as routine handwashing, up to and including advanced ventilation systems.
Carbon Monoxide Exposure
Carbon monoxide can develop as a byproduct of certain chemical reactions. This odorless and colorless gas is toxic to humans and can cause dizziness, weakness, vomiting, and even death when inhaled.
Protecting workers from carbon monoxide and other toxic fumes should include the use of (and regular inspection of) carbon monoxide detectors and appropriate signage wherever this gas is stored or potentially created.
UV Radiation
We typically think of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the context of sunlight. However, the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry may use UV radiation for operations such as vitamin D production.
Excessive exposure to UV radiation has been associated with an increased risk of cataracts, skin cancer, and burns on the eyes and skin. When applicable, pharmaceutical workers should be offered apparel and accessories that can protect their eyes and skin from UV light.