What are the criteria for occupational exposure limits (OELs) for hazardous drugs?

Occupational exposure limits (OELs) are set based on the understanding of how hazardous substances can affect worker health, particularly concerning inhalation exposure. This is crucial because inhalation is one of the primary routes through which workers may come into contact with hazardous drugs. OELs aim to establish the maximum acceptable concentration of a hazardous substance in the air that workers can be exposed to over a specific time without adverse effects. This focus on inhalation is particularly relevant for hazardous drugs, which can pose serious health risks through inhalation exposure during processes like compounding, dispensing, or administering medications.

OELs are not defined purely by chemical stability, as stability alone does not indicate the exposure risk associated with a drug. Furthermore, while toxic substances may have their own limits, OELs are not limited to those but can apply to a broader range of hazardous drugs. Lastly, while local regulations and standards can differ and may influence OELs, the core concept and determination of these limits are based on health impacts rather than geographical variations. Therefore, understanding that OELs specifically take into consideration inhalation exposure is key to assessing occupational safety regarding hazardous drugs.