Ethylene Oxide
Overview
Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a flammable gas with a somewhat sweet smell. It is used within a hospital's central supply as a sterilant for items that cannot be exposed to steam sterilization. It is a highly flammable chemical and could cause explosions if not handled correctly.
Exposure usually results from improper aeration of the EtO chamber after the sterilizing process, during off-gassing of sterilized items, or poor gas-line connections. It can occur in the following areas:
- outpatient surgery clinics
- cardiac catheterization laboratories
- operating rooms
- dental labs
- autopsy labs and other areas
Health Studies
NIOSH conducted two different studies to look at the health effects of exposure to EtO. These were the most extensive studies ever conducted on EtO exposure and the risk of disease.
Researchers looked at 18,235 men and women exposed to EtO from 14 sterilizer plants around the United States. Most of these workers used EtO to sterilize medical supplies.
Findings
The studies found no overall elevated risk for any cancer or other diseases compared to the general U.S. population. However, among those workers with long-term high-level EtO exposure, there was evidence of an elevated risk for blood cancers among men and breast cancer among women.
Conclusions
In conclusion, people exposed to high levels of EtO may be at an increased risk of developing blood cancers among men and breast cancers among women. Since 1985, when the current OSHA EtO standard went into effect, worker EtO exposures have been significantly lowered, which has reduced the risk of disease.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-1. What is the main use of ethylene oxide in a healthcare setting?
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