WAGs are anesthetic gases and vapors that leak into the surrounding room during medical procedures. At NYU Isoflurane is the commonly used inhalation anesthetic. Researchers can be exposed, via inhalation, to WAGs, including isoflurane, if care is not taken to scavenge or prevent release into the laboratory environment. The principal investigator (PI) or the lab supervisor is responsible for developing and implementing an SOP for the purchase, storage, safe handling, and use of this chemical that is specific to the PI’s research.
Always consult with OVR veterinarians if you have animal care concerns related to the use of halogenated anesthetic gases.
Upon request, an evaluation can be done to assess staff exposures by monitoring the laboratory workers while they perform work with isoflurane.
Types of anesthetic gas -Nitrous oxide and halogenated agents (vapors) such as halothane, enflurane, isoflurane, and desflurane. The most commonly used anesthetic at NYU is isoflurane.
External Links
OSHA Guidance Document- Anesthetic Gases: Guidelines for Workplace Exposures