Essex hospital pulls gas and air for pregnant women amid concerns for staff

Entonox gas and air is safe for pregnant women but exposure to staff over long periods could pose health risk

A hospital in Harlow has withdrawn painkilling gas and air for women because of the air quality of its maternity unit after high levels of nitrous oxide were found.

The Princess Alexandra hospital in Essex is the latest to withdraw the treatment. The Health and Safety Executive is already investigating Basildon hospital amid concerns over staff exposure to high levels of nitrous oxide used in Entonox.