In-depth survey report: control technology for ethylene oxide sterilization at Community Midcenter Hospital, Marion, Ohio

Technical Report · Thu Jul 18 04:00:00 EDT 1985

OSTI ID:6073095

Todd, W F; Kercher, S L; Mortimer, V D; O'Brien, D M; Amendola, A A

An in-depth survey of control technology for reducing exposure during ethylene oxide sterilization was conducted at Community Medcenter Hospital (SIC-8062), Marion, Ohio in October/November, 1984. Personal and general air monitoring for ethylene oxide was performed. Ventilation measurements were made. Engineering controls consisted of local exhaust ventilation, sterilizer cycle modification, and work practices. The authors conclude that the control system during the sterilizing operation provides adequate protection for the workers. Peak exposures during the time required to transfer the load may exceed the NIOSH recommended ceiling limit of 5ppm. Installation of better drain controls and improved exhaust ventilation of the recess room are recommended.

• Research Organization: National Inst. for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH (USA)
• OSTI ID: 6073095
• Report Number(s): PB-86-116969/XAB; CT-146-12B
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

500200* -- Environment
Atmospheric-- Chemicals Monitoring & Transport-- (-1989)
54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
552000 -- Public Health
99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS
AIR POLLUTION
AIR POLLUTION ABATEMENT
BUILDINGS
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
HOSPITALS
INDOOR AIR POLLUTION
INDUSTRIAL MEDICINE
INSPECTION
MATERIALS
MEDICAL ESTABLISHMENTS
MEDICINE
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY
POLLUTION
POLLUTION ABATEMENT
SAFETY
STERILIZATION
TOXICITY
VENTILATION