More than 100 maternity staff are taking legal action against a hospital trust due to exposure to nitrous oxide. Two years ago, an independent review discovered that Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust did not act transparently and there was an unacceptable delay in addressing concerns about dangerous gas levels in the maternity unit at Basildon University Hospital. The review by the Good Governance Institute revealed that midwives and other staff at the maternity unit faced unnecessary risks.

The report highlighted that high gas levels on the wards posed a significant health risk, yet no action was taken until several months later. The trust confirmed it is working to address the review’s recommendations. In a recent development, staff members, including midwives and healthcare assistants who worked at Basildon Hospital between 2018 and 2023, are now seeking legal recourse. They reported experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, headaches, and cognitive impairment.

Several claims have been settled, totaling over £89,000, covering damages, claimant costs, and NHS legal expenses. A 50:50 mix of nitrous oxide and oxygen, commonly known as “gas and air,” is widely used for pain management during labor and is considered safe by the NHS. However, prolonged exposure to high levels in the workplace can lead to serious health issues, including neurological disorders and anaemia.

Denise Townsend, acting chief nursing officer for Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, expressed regret for the delay in addressing the issues and mentioned improvements in monitoring medical gases at Basildon Hospital. The trust has implemented scavenger equipment to extract nitrous oxide from the air. Other NHS trusts have also been found with elevated nitrous oxide levels.