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Pharmaceutical workers may encounter hazards in a variety of workplace settings. But the most significant risks may arise, especially for people whose job responsibilities involve complex medications. They may be exposed to dangerous levels of toxic substances. But what kind of harmful substances?
– Biological hazards
The pharmaceutical industry often experiments with infectious pathogens such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. They make breakthrough discoveries and find new ways to treat people every day. But pharmaceutical workers and researchers must routinely handle these dangerous organisms to drive innovation. Contamination can cause various safety concerns.
– Chemical hazards
Working with hazardous chemicals is an important part of a pharmaceutical manufacturer’s workday. Many chemicals used in primary and secondary processing can be extremely hazardous to the health of employees if they are accidentally ingested or inhaled. Chemical hazards include various substances, such as flammable/explosive substances, liquids or gases, vapors, solids, fumes, mists, etc.
– Physical hazards
Also common in pharmaceutical manufacturing environments. It is usually related to hazards caused by the environment. Examples include noise, temperature, humidity, cold stress (hypothermia), heat stress (hyperthermia) and radiation. You may be wondering why radiation occurs in a pharmaceutical manufacturing plant. In fact, radiation may occur if UV light is required in some pharmaceutical operations. UV light is a form of non-ionizing radiation that can damage a cell’s DNA (genes), which can lead to cancer. The production of vitamin D, for example, involves the use of UV light.
When these substances are in powder, liquid, or cream form, worker exposure may occur by absorption or inhalation if proper safety protocols are practiced. Moreover, healthcare workers are not the only concern here. For example, family members may also be at risk if an employee’s clothing is contaminated.
One last thing to mention is that compounders aren’t the only ones at risk. Transporting and handling hazardous chemicals can also be very dangerous. This can cause chemical release leading to explosions and fires if done improperly by untrained personnel.
