Preliminary Survey Report: Control Technology for Ethylene Oxide Sterilization in Hospitals at Wooster Community Hospital, Wooster, Ohio

摘要

A preliminary survey of control technology for reducing ethylene-oxide (75218) exposures during ethylene-oxide sterilization operations at Wooster Community Hospital (SIC-8062), Wooster, Ohio was conducted in August, 1984. The purpose of the survey was to determine if the hospital should be included in a NIOSH ethylene-oxide control technology assessment survey. Sterilization operations were conducted by the Central Services Department. Engineering controls consisted of isolating the sterilizer operation, in chamber aeration, and local exhaust ventilation. The sterilizer contained a flow indicator to alert the operators if the local exhaust fan was not working; however, there was no audible alarm. The sterilizer cycle included a fresh air purge at the end of the cycle. Proper work practices for the employees were outlined in a procedure and policy manual. The author concludes that the facility seems to have an effective program for reducing ethylene-oxide exposures. Recommendations include personal monitoring for ethylene-oxide. The facility should be made part of the NIOSH survey.