Waste anesthetic gases such as Isoflurane or Halothane are considered suspect reproductive toxins. Be sure engineering controls such as a chemical fume hood or an appropriate anesthetic gas scavenging system are used to control exposure. DEHS has a halogen leak detector and can also collect personal air samples to determine exposure levels. Contact the DEHS Lab Safety Coordinator, or 852-2830, to periodically assess your system.

Implement the following precautions to reduce your exposure:

• Equipment Leaks – Before use, check the connections and proper operation of the anesthesia machine and scavenging system.


• Filling Vaporizer Reservoir – Use an anti-spill filler funnel to pour liquid anesthetic into vaporizer. These are available from vaporizer suppliers.


• Turning Vaporizer On and Off – Avoid turning the vaporizer on until the circuit is connected to the animal and turn off when not in use.


• Nosecone – Select nosecone that is appropriate for the face contour of the animal. Don’t administer the anesthesia until you’re sure the nosecone forms a good seal.


• Induction Chamber – Make sure there are tight seals for each opening of the induction chamber. Turn vaporizer off and let oxygen flush out the chamber before removing the animal.


• Disconnecting – Stop the flow of anesthetics before disconnecting the circuit.


• Nosecone Removal – Before nosecone removal or extubation, flush the circuit with oxygen.