In hazardous drug handling, which statement about air control is accurate?

• A. All spaces must be positive pressure to keep HD from escaping
• B. Negative pressure containment areas help keep contaminants contained
• C. Air control is not important
• D. No special air control is needed

Answer: (B)

Maintaining negative pressure in containment areas is essential for containing hazardous drug contaminants. When a space is kept at a lower pressure than surrounding areas, air flows from the cleaner areas into the containment area, pulling any drug aerosols or vapors back inside rather than allowing them to escape to other rooms. This inward airflow acts as a barrier, reducing the spread of contamination to the rest of the facility and protecting staff.

Positive pressure in all spaces would push contaminants out into adjacent areas, increasing exposure risk. Saying air control isn’t important or that no special air control is needed overlooks the engineering controls designed to keep hazardous drugs contained, such as negative-pressure rooms and properly managed ventilation.