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Background and Aims Sterile techniques in regional anaesthesia are critical to minimizing the risks of arachnoiditis and meningitis, as emphasized in the National Audit Project 3. To reduce contamination from naso-oral flora, operating department practitioners (ODPs) should wear a facemask when assisting anaesthetists during procedures. Additionally, chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) spray has the potential to disperse beyond the intended application site, making it unsuitable for use with exposed neuraxial needles. Filter needles should be employed in a unidirectional manner, and ampoules must be wiped to maintain aseptic precautions. Dead space within syringes must be accounted for in the drawing-up process to ensure accurate dosing of intrathecal opioids, preventing sub-therapeutic administration. This re-audit aimed to assess adherence to sterility protocols and manufacturer recommendations during spinal anaesthesia procedures performed for caesarean sections.Methods A prospective, single-blinded observational audit was conducted on 55 spinal anaesthesia procedures within the maternity unit. A 12-point questionnaire evaluated sterility measures, ampoule preparation, filter needle usage, and awareness of dead space loss in drug preparation.Results 5% of patients had their back sprayed after the tray was opened. Only 1% of ODPs wore masks during drug preparation, and sterile gloves or gauze were not used when breaking ampoules. Alcohol wipes were also omitted in 100% of cases. Filter needle use was inconsistent, with 100% of cases employing the same needle for aspiration and injection rather than unidirectional usage. Dead space awareness was absent in all cases. Nil improvement in results compared to previous audit.Conclusions Further structured departmental education and training sessions will be needed to address these gaps to enhance compliance, improve patient safety, and optimize anaesthetic practices.Abstract EP105 Figure 1Dead space in syringe needle hub: A visual representation of residual volume in different syringe designs