Leading organizations in healthcare safety, Fórsa and the European Biosafety Network (EBN), along with the Hospital Pharmacists Association of Ireland and the National Association of Hospital Pharmacy Technicians have teamed up for a joint summit on the risks involved when working with Hazardous Medicinal Products (HMPs). The free event takes place in Fórsa HQ on Tuesday 30^th January 2024.

HMPs pose potential risks to healthcare workers at various stages from manufacturing to administration, causing health issues ranging from headaches to severe conditions like cancer.

The event will explore practical measures to promote best practice and foster a culture of shared knowledge when it comes to HMPs and other dangerous drugs, often used to treat cancer, viruses, and other life-threatening conditions.

The panel will see Dr. Tony Musu and Dr. Paul Sessink present insights into new European legislation, including an EU list of HMPs and guidelines on safe handling, with discussions on their practical implementation and transposition in Ireland.

Ian Lindsley will unveil survey results on Irish healthcare workers' awareness and engagement in preventive measures. Darren Arkins from the Health and Safety Authority will respond, providing a regulatory perspective.

Dr. Paul Sessink will present a case study on best practices in handling HMPs, followed by a panel discussion featuring representatives from healthcare associations, addressing the upcoming changes to Irish legislation and guidance.

The summit will conclude with a summary of key findings and a call to action led by Fórsa national secretary Linda Kelly, calling for collective efforts to mitigate occupational exposure risks.

Secure your place at “Preventing occupational exposure to Hazardous Medicinal Products (HMPs)” on Tuesday, January 30th, 2024 via Eventbrite. Registration from 9:30 am with refreshments to 3:00 pm at Fórsa, Nerney’s Court, Dublin 1.  Attendees are responsible for travel costs.

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