In-depth survey report: modified control technology for ethylene oxide sterilization in hospitals at Community Medcenter Hospital, Marion, Ohio

Technical Report · Sun Jun 01 04:00:00 EDT 1986

OSTI ID:7110098

Mortimer, V D; Kercher, S L

Controls for ethylene oxide (EtO) emitted from gas sterilization of medical items were evaluated at Community MedCenter Hospital, Marion, Ohio, in October, 1985 after modifications to the system. Personal exposures and area concentrations were sampled with charcoal tubes, gas bags, or an infrared analyzer. Full-shift exposures for the sterilizer operator were controlled to less than 0.05 parts per million (ppm) average with a combination of local exhaust ventilation at the emission sources, sterilizer cycle modifications, and work practices. Short term exposures during transfer of the load to the aerator had an average value of less than 0.22ppm versus 1.98ppm before controls were added. Employee exposures were less than the 5ppm ceiling limit which NIOSH has recommended not be achieved for more than 10 minutes in any workday. EtO was detected in front of the sterilizer during the purge cycle due to an unsealed drain connection and inadequate recess room exhaust. Temporarily sealing the drain controlled EtO emissions during purge.

• Research Organization: National Inst. for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH (USA)
• OSTI ID: 7110098
• Report Number(s): PB-86-237252/XAB; ECTB-146-12C
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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