Incidents of ethylene oxide leaks in recent years is prompting the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to lay down new rules regarding the toxic gas, according to an article from AboutLawsuits.com. Exposure to the highly carcinogenic compound, used to sterilize medical equipment often made of polymers, metals, glass or made with multiple layers with hard-to-reach crevices, reportedly is linked to serious and potentially life-threatening injuries.
Ethylene leaks and spills at manufacturing facilities over the past few years, most notably at Sterigenics plants in Illinois and Georgia, has led to shutdowns and concern for the health of nearby residents and workers exposed to the gas, according to AboutLawsuits.com. It reportedly has also instigated numerous lawsuits. The EPA says it will seek input from stakeholders as it prepares proposed ethylene oxide air pollution regulations.
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