Yellow Hand
Drugs with carcinogenic, mutagenic and/ or reproductive toxicity must must be handled with caution.
Promoting Quality Standards for the Oncology Pharmacy Service ESOP offers a guideline for the transport of highly potent drugs and practical help.
Suppliers are asked to take precautions to avoid:
– breakage (e.g. plastic bottles instead of glass bottles)
– external contamination (e.g. cleaning, outer wrapping)
Thus, for the delivery of any cmr-drugs QuapoS guidelines insist on the following:
– secured, sealed, leak-proof cases
– a separate delivery
– clear labeling (in the spoken language of the recipient)
Labels should indicate:
– a warning of the highly potent drug
– that contact must be avoided
– that pregnant or breastfeeding women must not handle the product
– an emergency contact in case of spillage

Recognizing Commitment to Safety: Our Yellow Hand Awards
At the heart of the “Yellow Hand” initiative lies a shared commitment to safety, responsibility, and excellence in the handling of cytotoxic drugs.
To honor those who go above and beyond in supporting this mission, we proudly present two special recognitions:
👉 Click here to see our
Safe labelling partner

👉 Click here to see more about the
Monique-Ackermann-Award

Our Safe labelling partner
This distinction is awarded to pharmaceutical companies that actively implement the “Yellow Hand” label in their logistics and shipping processes. By doing so, they demonstrate a strong commitment to protecting healthcare workers, patients, and the environment through clear and consistent safety practices.
Our Monique-Ackermann-Award
Named in honor of a passionate advocate for safe handling practices, this award celebrates individual members and pharmacy teams who show exceptional dedication in applying the “Yellow Hand” in their daily work. Whether through internal transport, education, or advocacy, their efforts set a powerful example for others to follow.
These awards reflect our deep appreciation for all who contribute to a safer healthcare environment.
We look forward to continuing this journey together and to recognizing many more outstanding partners and professionals in the years to come.
News from Austria:
Standards für das Gebrauchsfertigmachen, die Applikation
und die Entsorgung von Zytostatika
Detailed Information
Labels Yellow Hand
