An estimated 500,000 workers are exposed to smoke plume each year including: surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, laser hair removal technicians and surgical technologists. That is why in 1996, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) released a health hazard alert on smoke plume. Smoke plume can contain “toxic gases and vapors such as benzene, hydrogen, cyanide and formaldehyde, bio-aerosols, dead and live cellular material and viruses.” Exposure to the smoke in large doses may cause viral contamination, respiratory problems, nausea and burning eyes. Contact OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) at:
Greg Watchman
Assistant Secretary
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Department of Labor
200 Constitution Avenue, N.W. - S2315
Washington, DC 20210 |
