Hawaii HB218 mandates hospitals with operating rooms to adopt policies preventing surgical smoke exposure using evacuation systems.

Hawaii HB218 requires hospitals with operating rooms to implement policies preventing exposure to surgical smoke by using smoke evacuation systems for procedures generating such smoke. Surgical smoke, produced by tools like lasers and electrosurgical devices, contains harmful chemicals like benzene and formaldehyde. The bill defines "smoke evacuation system" as equipment designed to capture and remove surgical smoke at its source, preventing ocular and respiratory tract contact. The Hawaii Department of Health will ensure compliance during inspections and complaints.

Hawaii HB218 mandates hospitals with operating rooms to adopt policies preventing surgical smoke exposure using evacuation systems.

Hawaii HB218 requires hospitals with operating rooms to implement policies preventing exposure to surgical smoke by using smoke evacuation systems for procedures generating such smoke. Surgical smoke, produced by tools like lasers and electrosurgical devices, contains harmful chemicals like benzene and formaldehyde. The bill defines "smoke evacuation system" as equipment designed to capture and remove surgical smoke at its source, preventing ocular and respiratory tract contact. The Hawaii Department of Health will ensure compliance during inspections and complaints.