Personnel handling hazardous drugs such as cytotoxic drugs must receive more stringent and specialised training than personnel handling ordinary drugs. Their qualifications and training are essential to occupational safety and the prevention of environmental contamination. Training must cover: 1) the characteristics and potential hazards of hazardous drugs (such as carcinogenicity and teratogenicity); 2) the correct selection and procedures for putting on and removing personal protective equipment (PPE), such as double gloves, protective gowns, goggles and respiratory protective equipment; 3) procedures for handling hazardous drugs in a dedicated negative-pressure isolator or biological safety cabinet; 4) emergency procedures for accidental spills and exposure incidents; and 5) the correct classification, labelling and handling of hazardous drug waste. Only employees who have completed the training and passed the assessment may be authorised to handle these high-risk products.
HONG KONG DRUG LICENSING
What special qualifications and protective training are required for personnel handling cytotoxic drugs or other hazardous drugs?
A complete explanation of the regulatory basis, Drew Tang’s recommendations and risk alerts. The original material dates from 2025; read it alongside the latest official requirements.
Original guide, 2025 edition: These FAQs are provided for topic-based reference and have not all been individually checked against current rules. Please confirm fees, personnel, renewal, changes and product requirements against the professional in-depth guide for the relevant licence type and the official requirements in force at the time.
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