Opportunities to reduce exposure to chemotherapy drugs
Antineoplastic agents, commonly used in cancer treatment, pose significant health risks to healthcare workers exposed to them. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified some of these agents as carcinogenic, with approximately 75,000 Canadian workers at risk. Despite existing safety guidelines, compliance remains poor, and various workplaces, such as hospitals, pharmacies, and veterinary care, face challenges in ensuring safe handling. This study aimed to identify the barriers and facilitators influencing the safe handling of antineoplastic agents. Using a four-step method, we conducted an environmental scan, developed a logic model, reviewed relevant literature, and engaged stakeholders through interviews. Findings revealed differences in policies across provinces, highlighting the need for pan-Canadian standards. Common barriers included inadequate training, poor safety culture, and inconsistent policies, while facilitators included proper training, leadership support, and effective monitoring. The study offers key resources, including policy compendiums, frameworks, and a comparative report, to improve safety in handling these hazardous agents.
Principal Applicant: | Darren Brenner (University of Calgary) |
Co-Applicants: | Cheryl Peters (Carleton University and CAREX Canada); Alison Palmer (CAREX Canada); Lynne Nakashima (BC Cancer Agency) |
Funding Awarded: | $49,775 (Innovation at Work) |