Health and Safety

Health and Safety is central to both teaching and research activities in the School of Medical Sciences. This commitment to H&S can be seen in SoMS's active H&S Committee, which was first formed in 2001, in the appointment of Safety Supervisors for Radiation, Biological and Chemical Safety, and in the School's appointment of a full time H&S co-ordinator to facilitate H&S initiatives within the School.

The school is committed to meet the requirements of the UNSW H&S policy and implement the aims and strategies outlines within.

News

17 May 2012

Working with cytotoxic drugs

Following a recent incident it appears there may be some confusion over the definition of cytotoxic drugs.

Some cytotoxic drugs may be listed as a Prohibited and Restricted Carcinogens in the Work Health & Safety Regulations e.g. Cyclophosphamide is a notifiable carcinogenic substance. Most cytotoxic drugs are classified as hazardous substances and working with them must comply with hazardous chemicals risk management procedures.

Cytotoxic drugs cause the death of certain type of cells and are used to treat conditions such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and some ophthalmic conditions. Not all drugs prescribed for cancer are cytotoxic. Cytotoxic drugs are known to be highly toxic to non-target cells, mainly through their action on cell reproduction. Some have been shown to be mutagenic (causing changes to DNA) or teratogenic (causing birth defects) in various experimental systems.

UNSW procedures that apply include:
OHS434 Carcinogens guideline
OHS335 Prohibited and notifiable carcinogens procedure
OHS332 Hazardous substances and dangerous goods procedure

For more information on cytotoxic drugs see the WorkCover cytotoxic drugs guidance.