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Hi all,

I am currently working in a clinic where the drill has recently packed up and decided to die on me. I was told by the bosses to use a dremmel drill with the same attachments as the old drill, which is fine, they fit and it does the job it is supposed to. My issue is that this replacement drill, apart from looking unprofessional as it is more like an industrial product, is that it has no extraction.

I also work in a very enclosed clinic with no windows, although there is an extractor fan to the room (the usefulness of this is up for debate). Despite wearing the protective masks/glasses provided, I can't help but query if this is right?

As a professional, not only do I want to convey to my patients that they are receiving the best possible care to the highest professional standards, but also ensure I do not acquire any throat, eye, nose, chest infections etc.

Reading a few studies, and from previous learning experiences, it is clear that fungal spores can pose a significant health risk when airborne and any means to reduce this risk should be undertaken.

I am hoping the original drill will be replaced, however I am sceptical this would be the case.

Any thoughts or advice would be very much welcomed

 

Steve,

If you work in the NHS, this may well be a union matter! If you are a society member, contact them.

Basically, even if wearing a mask, I refuse to use non-extraction. They are a H & S nightmare. Fungal lung, yes, you read that correctly. fungal lung is very difficult to treat and can happen!

There are also carcinogen concerns!

Gordon Burrows at Glasgow Caledonian University is very knowledgeable on this matter!

There is a practitioner in Coventry apparently, who refuses a drill full stop, even dust extraction!

 

Surely as a professional paractitioner, if you are not completely happy, then you don't do it?