Is ethylene oxide regulated in the United States?

Yes. It’s the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that regulates ethylene oxide (EtO) emissions in the United States. The EPA is able to regulate EtO use and emissions through the Clean Air Act and the Federal Fungicide, Insecticide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA).

The EPA has set strict regulations for EtO air emissions and its use as a pesticide and a sterilization agent

The EPA has put in place numerous regulations to safeguard the environment and the health of people. On top of the Clean Air Act and FIFRA, the organization has set guidelines for sterilization facilities and hospital EtO sterilizers.

Establishments that use EtO are now under stricter standards and are expected to adhere to the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP), which has the directive to reduce EtO emissions. Through NESHAP, the EPA is able to monitor whether or not facilities comply with EtO-related regulations.

The active and tireless efforts of EPA ultimately aim to:

  • Reduce EtO emissions
  • Protect workers of EtO-using facilities
  • Support communities located near EtO-using facilities
  • Monitor establishments to make sure they comply with regulations surrounding EtO use

Find out if you are eligible to file a claim for EtO exposure

Did you or your immediate family recently receive a cancer diagnosis after long-term exposure to ethylene oxide? You may be entitled to fair compensation. Talk to our legal team at ELG Law to know if you qualify for an EtO exposure claim. Our skilled attorneys can assess your case and let you know what your legal options are. For eligible cases, our lawyers will assist you in filing your EtO-related claims.

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