Nitrous oxide may cause decreases in mental preformance, audiovisual ability and manual dexterity and adverse reproductive effects. Prevent leakage from the anesthetic delivery system through proper maintenance and inspection of equipment. Eliminate or replace the following:
- Loose-fitting connections
- loosely assembled or deformed slip joints and threaded connections
- Defective or worn seals, gaskets, breathing bags, and hoses
Control waste nitrous oxide with a well- designed scavenging system that includes the following:
- Securely fitting masks
- Sufficient flow rates for the exhaust
- Properly vented vacuum pumps
Ref. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
