B. Braun Calls for Stronger Protections for Healthcare Workers Following National Coverage of Hazardous Drug Risks

B. Braun UK has welcomed the national attention brought by Channel 4 News and The Independent on the risks faced by nurses, pharmacists and other healthcare staff when handling hazardous medicinal products (HMPs) and is calling for clearer statutory protections to reduce avoidable exposure. 

The investigation, broadcast and published on 7th May, highlighted longstanding gaps in the UK’s approach to hazardous drug handling. Unlike the EU and the US, the UK still has no statutory definition of hazardous medicinal products, no mandatory national list, and no legal requirement for closed system transfer devices (CSTDs), despite international evidence showing that these engineering controls significantly help to reduce exposure. 

Nav Cameron, Sales & Marketing Manager at B. Braun UK said:

’The Channel 4 News investigation has brought national visibility to an issue that healthcare workers have been raising for years. The UK still lacks the basic statutory framework needed to protect staff from exposure to hazardous medicinal products. These are preventable risks, and the evidence is clear that closed system transfer devices play a vital role in helping to reduce measurable exposure.’ 

As a partner of the Safer Health Biosafety Network (SHBN), B. Braun is supporting calls for the UK to align with international standards. The company joined the SHBN and the Royal College of Nursing at a Parliamentary Reception in October 2025, after which Luke Akehurst MP, raised the issue in the House of Commons on 9th March. 

Nav added:

‘We support SHBN’s call for a statutory definition, a mandatory list, and clear legal requirements for CSTDs. These are practical, evidence‑based steps that would bring the UK in line with global best practice and give healthcare workers the protection they deserve.’ 

The Channel 4 News segment and Independent article, featured contributions from clinical experts, academics and representation from the RCN, reinforcing the urgency of modernising the UK’s approach to occupational exposure. 

Our call for clearer statutory protections is made in full support of NHS teams and the vital work they do every day. Throughout 2026, B. Braun will continue working with SHBN, NHS Trusts and professional bodies to support readiness assessments, education, and the adoption of evidence‑based safety technologies that reduce exposure risks. 

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