Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 84-174-1490, Denver General Hospital, Denver, Colorado

摘要

Environmental and breathing zone samples were analyzed for ethylene-oxide (75218) at Denver General Hospital (SIC-8062), Denver, Colorado in May, 1984. The survey was requested by the management of the central supply department to evaluate potential health hazards from exposures to ethylene-oxide used for sterilizing instruments and other items in the hospital. Interviews were conducted with three technicians and two supervisors. The author concludes that a health hazard due to ethylene-oxide does not exist at the hospital. The author recommends that only qualified, trained individuals be permitted to use the sterilizer, all new personnel be briefed on ethylene-oxide toxicity, and the ventilation and door gaskets of the sterilizer be checked once a month.