Waste anesthetic gases (WAGs) are volatile anesthetic gases (e.g., isoflurane, nitrous oxide, desflurane, and sevoflurane) used during a medical or surgical procedure to alleviate pain and/or distress.

Exposure to WAGs may result in adverse health effects.

Symptoms of Exposure

Acute

• Headache
• Nausea
• Irritability
• Fatigue
• Drowsiness
• Difficulties in judgement and coordination

Chronic

• Liver & Kidney disease
• Reproductive effects

Safety Considerations

If you can SMELL Isoflurane, you are being exposed!

WARNING: There are no safe exposure limits for staff who are pregnant or suspect they are pregnant.

If you suspect that there is a risk for exposure, contact the EH&S Industrial Hygiene Office to discuss their sampling services at 352-392-1591.

Training and Resources

• Waste Anesthetic Gas Fact Sheet
• WAG Online Training (UF_EHS884) is recommended for those working with anesthetic gases. The course covers the following topics:
  • Potential risks of anesthetic gases
  • Appropriate setup of a waste scavenging system
  • Best practices for animal procedures involving anesthetic gas, waste disposal, and emergency response
• Compressed Gas Cylinders Rules
• Pharmaceutical Product Rules