What is a requirement for air filtration systems used in compounding hazardous drugs?

HEPA filters are a crucial requirement for air filtration systems in environments compounding hazardous drugs. These filters are specifically designed to capture very small particles (0.3 microns or larger) with an efficiency of 99.97%, thus ensuring that the air quality is maintained at a safe level. In the context of compounding hazardous drugs, it is essential to minimize the risk of exposure to airborne contaminants, which could pose significant health risks to both personnel and patients.

Using HEPA filters plays a critical role in creating a controlled environment that meets the strict standards set forth by USP <800>, which addresses the handling of hazardous drugs to ensure safety and minimize the risk of contamination. This is why the answer underscores the importance of HEPA filters, as they are specifically designed for environments where maintaining air quality and reducing contamination is paramount.