Top medical management and levels of knowledge about the application of the D.lgs. 626/94]

The incorporation into Italian legislation of the European Community directives on the improvement of health and safety at work imposes new duties on the department heads of hospital departments. Their level of knowledge and information on several safety problems--occupational infections, exposure to chemical agents, use of antineoplastic and antiviral drugs, use of protective garments and devices, exposure to ionizing and non ionizing radiations, use of electric devices, lifting and loading, fire prevention--was surveyed in a large teaching hospital in northern Italy, via a check-list derived from Italian and international experience. Both knowledge and information resulted rather low, with particular regard to chemical, electric and fire hazards. The ignorance of department heads about common safety and prevention procedures in hospital work does not allow them to carry out their role according to the new requirements of Italian legislation. However, as they "must" know and have criminal responsibility in case of accidents or diseases due to their unawareness, appropriate courses are needed to fulfil law and safety requirements.