Missed Risk: Why Electro Surgical Tool Testing Is Vital For COSHH Compliance
In the fast-paced environment of NHS hospitals, one critical risk often goes unaddressed. The surgical plume generated by electro surgical instruments such as diathermy pens and laparoscopic tools. This invisible hazard, which IOM engineers have seen whilst carrying out ventilation validations, carries serious health, financial and regulatory implications needs to be addressed.
Surgical plume, or smoke, is a by-product of procedures involving tissue ablation, cauterisation, or thermal desiccation. It contains toxic chemicals, some of which have carcinogenic potential. Exposure can lead to acute respiratory conditions, including asthma and asthma-like symptoms. Alarmingly, there are documented cases suggesting viral transmission—such as HPV—from patient to surgeon via plume exposure. Despite these risks, some healthcare professionals remain unaware that electro surgical tools fall under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations. This lack of awareness means that Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems—also known as plume extraction systems (PES)—are often missing from risk registers and compliance schedules.
COSHH regulations require that PES systems be tested every 14 months. These systems must be either integrated into the tool or positioned as close to the plume source as possible. Annual testing, staff training, and inclusion in planned preventative maintenance (PPM) schedules are essential for compliance.
Non-compliance with COSHH doesn’t just endanger staff—it can be costly. Hospitals found in breach may face regulatory penalties, reputational damage, and increased insurance liabilities. Moreover, the long-term health consequences for staff exposed to surgical plume could result in absenteeism, compensation claims, and reduced workforce morale.
What You Can Do
IOM is encouraging all health and safety managers to urgently review whether electro surgical tools are included in their risk assessments and LEV testing schedules. If they are not, your hospital may be exposed.
IOM is one of the few UK companies equipped to test PES systems associated with electro surgical tools. We can support you in identifying and testing the tools and ensuring that they meet COSHH standards. Our expertise is trusted nationwide, and we’re here to support you in protecting your staff and maintaining compliance.
Let’s fix this blind spot together. Contact IOM to schedule your PES system testing and take a confident step towards safer, healthier surgical environments.