EPA proposal could have major impact on chemical widely used throughout health care 

The Environmental Protection Agency is proposing a tightening of standards regulating the manufacturing of several toxic chemicals, including ethylene oxide, which is widely used for sterilizing PPE and other medical equipment. The EPA on April 6 said its proposal to reduce toxic air pollution from the synthetic organic chemical manufacturing industry and the polymers and resins industry is intended to reduce air toxics-related cancer risks for people who live near approximately 200 plants across the country that make synthetic organic chemicals. In connection with this proposed rule, the EPA also is expected to release another proposal focused on emission standards for ethylene oxide’s use in commercial sterilization facilities. AHA will update members on any potential impact of these proposals as more information becomes available. Read EPA’s fact sheet for more information.