Safety issues with anaesthetics for surgical or prolonged procedures

Many injectable anaesthetics are controlled drugs in the UK and elsewhere. Although the immediate risks associated with accidental self-injection are small, they must be handled carefully, and stored securely. 

Any injectable or volatile anaesthetics that remain after you have completed an anaesthetic need to be stored safely and securely or disposed of safely. The regulations controlling this will vary in different countries. If you are obtaining the anaesthetic agents from your animal unit, they will be able to advise you on what procedure needs to be followed. If you have purchased the anaesthetic agents yourself, then your veterinary advisor, or the supplier, should be able to advise you on safe disposal and storage.