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Glutaraldehyde (Cidex) is a common high level disinfectant used in hospitals on endoscopes and other equipment. Previously, a 0.2 ppm ceiling limit was established by OSHA in 29 CFR 1910.1000, subpart Z-1A. However, this entire section was challenged and stayed in court. OSHA is now enforcing an older version of the Z-1A table which does not include an exposure limit. However, the ACGIH ceiling limit is still in place.
Most employers realize that the health risk has not disappeared due to this legal challenge. In fact, the ACGIH limit may still be enforced by OSHA under the general duty clause. A ceiling limit suggests that even short term (instantaneous) exposures can cause health effects. Therefore, proper ventilation is extremely important when using glutaraldehyde in order to meet this very low ceiling limit.
PROGRAM COMPONENTS:
Determination of ceiling exposure by OSHA method 64
Written evaluation of work practice, signage, msds, respirator program,
and employee training
Ventilation evaluation of air exchange rates
Written test report in OSHA accepted format
Post test conference