Preliminary survey report, control technology for ethylene oxide sterilization in hospitals at Euclid General Hospital, Euclid, Ohio.
Source
Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, ECTB 146-14a, 1984 Dec; :1-16
Abstract
A preliminary survey of control technology for reducing ethylene- oxide (75218) exposure during ethylene-oxide sterilization operations at Euclid General Hospital (SIC-8062), Euclid, Ohio was conducted in August, 1984. The purpose of the survey was to determine if the facility should be included in a NIOSH ethylene- oxide control technology assessment. Sterilization operations were conducted by the Central Services department. Engineering controls consisted of isolation of the sterilization equipment, and local exhaust and general ventilation. Local exhaust ventilation consisted of hoods, four louvered vents located above the sterilizers, and ducts from the aerator and sterilizer safety relief valves. General ventilation consisted of three supply air diffusers and a system that kept the decontamination room behind the sterilizers under negative pressure. All workers were provided with information on the hazards of ethylene-oxide exposure and its proper handling. Employees were encouraged to wear protective cotton gloves when using the equipment. Environmental and continuous monitoring systems were in place. The continuous monitoring system was set to alarm when ethylene-oxide concentrations reached 20 parts per million. The author concludes that the facility has a sound program for ethylene-oxide control. The facility is recommended for inclusion into the NIOSH survey.
Keywords
NIOSH-Author; NIOSH-Survey; Control-technology; Field-Study; Medical-facilities; Toxic-vapors; Fumigants; Ventilation-systems; Industrial-hygiene; Safety-clothing; Protective-clothing; Region-5
Document Type
Field Studies; Control Technology
NTIS Accession No.
PB85-221307
Identifying No.
ECTB-146-14a
Source Name
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
