Is it acceptable to reduce or turn off negative pressure to the C-SEC when the room is not in use?

Maintaining negative pressure in a compounding sterile environment (C-SEC) is critical for ensuring the safety of the compounding process and protecting staff, patients, and the environment from hazardous drugs. Constant negative pressure helps to contain airborne contaminants and prevents the escape of harmful substances into adjacent areas.

Turning off or reducing negative pressure, even when the room is not in use, can lead to potentially dangerous accumulations of hazardous substances in the C-SEC, compromising both facility safety and compliance with regulations. The USP 800 guidelines emphasize the need for continuous negative pressure to protect against exposure risks associated with handling hazardous drugs, regardless of the room's operational status. Thus, the requirement to maintain negative pressure at all times supports the overarching goal of minimizing exposure to these substances.