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

摘要

A preliminary survey of control technology for reducing ethylene-oxide (75218) exposure during ethylene-oxide sterilization operations at Community Medcenter Hospital (SIC-8062), Marion, Ohio was conducted in July, 1984. The purpose of the survey was to determine if the facility should be included in a NIOSH ethylene-oxide control technology assessment survey. Sterilization operations were conducted by the supply, processing, and distribution department (SPD). Engineering controls included isolation of the sterilizer and general dilution ventilation. The facility had no ethylene-oxide monitoring system. Environmental air monitoring, however, had been done 4 times since 1983 by an outside contractor. Most recent results indicated ethylene-oxide concentrations were below 1 part per million. No personal ethylene-oxide monitoring was ever done. Work practices for employees were outlined in a procedure and policy manual. The SPD was considering adding local exhaust ventilation above the sterilizer door and at the evacuation drain, and modifying the sterilizer cycle to include an air flush phase. The author concludes that without sampling and ventilation data, the effectiveness of the existing controls in reducing ethylene-oxide exposure cannot be determined. Recommendations include periodic personal monitoring for ethylene-oxide. The facility should undergo an indepth survey for inclusion in the NIOSH study.