EPA proposes new rules to cut ethylene oxide exposure
US agency plans to tighten emissions standards and implement safeguards for exposed workers
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed new measures to reduce exposure to ethylene oxide (EtO) – a colourless and flammable gas that is widely used as a disinfectant and pesticide. The EPA’s new rules, announced on 11 April, would include more stringent air emissions standards and extra protections for workers at facilities where the gas is used to sterilise medical devices and certain spices.