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Hazardous Air Pollutants: Ethylene Oxide (EtO)

  • Proposed Actions to Reduce Ethylene Oxide Risks

    EPA is proposing new health protections to reduce exposure to EtO including more stringent air emissions standards and additional protections for workers.

    Learn more about these actions

  • Engage in EPA Actions to Address Ethylene Oxide

    EPA is offering several opportunities for the public and interested groups to engage with the Agency on controlling air emissions of ethylene oxide. 

    Learn how to participate

Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a colorless gas used to make other chemicals that are used in making a range of products, including antifreeze, textiles, plastics, detergents and adhesives. EtO also is used to sterilize equipment and plastic devices that cannot be sterilized by steam, such as medical equipment. EtO use can contribute to increased cancer risk. EPA is committed to reducing this risk by taking action to protect communities, workers in commercial sterilization, and others who might be at increased risk from EtO when it is used to sterilize things. 

Learn About EtO

  • EPA Actions to Reduce Risk
  • Ethylene Oxide (EtO) Explained
    • Our Current Understanding
    • EtO Risks and Your Health
    • Addressing and Learning about EtO

EtO Outreach

  • Public Webinars 
  • Community Engagement
  • Read the Pre-proposal Fact Sheet
  • Additional Questions About EtO

Comment on Proposed EtO Actions to Reduce Risk

  • Summary of Upcoming EtO Meetings
  • Air Toxics Rule for Commercial Sterilizers
  • Proposed Interim Decision on Use as a Pesticide
  • Air Toxics Rule for Chemical Manufacturing
  • How to Submit Written Comments

Explore EtO Data

  • Air Toxics Screening Assessment
  • Hazardous Air Pollutants
  • EtO Releases Trends

Additional Resources

  • Federal Partnerships on EtO
  • Integrated Risk Information System: EtO Assessment
  • Inspector General Follow-up on Ethylene Oxide

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Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on May 4, 2023
United States Environmental Protection Agency

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