U.S. EPA announces new rules to reduce ethylene oxide emissions from sterilization facilities by 90%.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced new rules to reduce ethylene oxide emissions from commercial sterilization facilities by 90%. Ethylene oxide, a carcinogen, is used to sterilize medical devices and is responsible for some of the highest cancer risks in communities near manufacturers and users. The new regulations will require the installation of pollution-control equipment and regular testing of emissions.