1. United States
2. N.J.
3. Letter

Make a Public Comment: Oppose EPA Proposal on Ethylene Oxide. Deadline Extended to May 15. Ethylene Oxide is a highly flammable, colorless gas primarily used to manufacture textiles and detergents and to sterilize over 50% of all medical devices in the U.S. It is a known human carcinogen linked to lymphoma, leukemia, and breast cancer. Exposure occurs through industrial emissions or inhalation, requiring strict safety controls to prevent cancer and reproductive and developmental damage. Two years ago, a rule was put in place setting emission limits and requiring operators to use advanced monitoring systems to confirm controls were working effectively. The current EPA is now proposing relaxing the limits and making the installation of new monitoring systems or adjustments to ventilation systems voluntary. Submit a comment opposing the weakening of standards and regulations that will affect healthcare workers and communities alike. Public comments can change outcomes and are also powerful evidence in any ensuing legal challenges to changes in regulatory rules. Read submitted comments and submit your comment here.