Anesthetic Gases

Anesthetic gases/vapors such as nitrous oxide and isoflurane are commonly used in laboratory animal research protocols.  Halothane, enflurane, and desflurane may also be used in some circumstances. Exposure may occur through inhalation of waste anesthetic gases (WAGs) unintentionally released into the laboratory from leaks in the scavenging system, animal respiration, or uncaptured WAGs.  Please follow the guidance in this fact sheet to eliminate and minimize exposure.