Control of Hazards in Operation Theater.

ABSTRACT

The operation theater (OT) environment is charged with multiple inherent risks. So, the team in the OT and the patient brought for surgical treatment may come across various hazards that can be classified as (a) physical and accidental hazards, (b) chemical hazards, (c) biological hazards, (d) fire hazards, and (e) other hazards, such as organizational, psychological, and atmospheric. Inadequate safety measures thus can result in multiple ill effects. Constant vigilance, awareness with timely intervention, maintenance of a specific operative procedure, and an educated team culture can make the OT environment a safe haven for the patient as well as for the theater team. The aim of this article is to identify and categorize the hazards that occur in the OT during surgery, and the related precautionary measures taken thereof for the safety of both the operating team and the patients who have the right to be treated with dignity and respect.