Schneider Commends EPA for Announcing Regulations to Reduce Ethylene Oxide Emissions

WASHINGTON—Today, the Environmental Protection Agency announced its final rule to reduce Ethylene Oxide (EtO) emissions at nearly 90 commercial sterilization facilities nationwide. This final rule is the strongest national measure in US history to reduce stack and fugitive EtO emissions. It is expected to cut emissions by more than 90 percent, protecting communities in Illinois living near commercial sterilization facilities from elevated cancer risks.

The announcement follows Rep. Schneider’s tireless advocacy for sensible regulations to reduce dangerous exposure to EtO. As chair of the bipartisan Congressional EtO Task Force, Schneider has pushed for more stringent measures by organizing meetings with EPA Administrators Michael Regan and Andrew Wheeler and leading bipartisan legislation with Sens. Durbin and Duckworth.

Following EPA’s proposal of this rule last April, Schneider led 40 of his Congressional colleagues in writing to the EPA to support its effort. The final rule includes a number of the critical priorities Schneider advocated for, including stringent requirements on both stack and fugitive emissions sources.

“I commend the EPA for finalizing regulations in a way that will reduce EtO emissions by more than 90% at facilities across the country," said Schneider. “I appreciate that the EPA followed the science to keep Americans safe while also ensuring safe, reliable supply chains for hospitals, physicians, and patients. I have long fought for sensible regulations to address EtO air emissions and assist impacted communities. Today's regulations will rightly require continuous air monitoring to assure communities that the air they breathe is safe, as well as provide an on-ramp for facilities to comply so that we do not have to choose between safe air and a stable supply of medical products. I will continue to be an outspoken advocate for air monitoring in communities where sterilization facilities are present, and I will always fight to prevent harmful toxins from entering our air.”

Rule Background

The final rule addresses emissions from nearly 90 commercial sterilization facilities operated by approximately 50 companies. It establishes standards for previously unregulated emissions like building leaks and chamber exhaust vents to reduce cancer risk and accommodate technological advancements. Additionally, it strengthens existing standards for sterilization chamber vents and aeration room vents. The rule mandates continuous emissions monitoring and quarterly reporting for most sterilizers to prevent ethylene oxide (EtO) emissions from entering outdoor air. It also ensures sterilizers adhere to emission standards during startup, shutdown, and malfunctions. Other provisions include electronic reporting and technical revisions for clarity and accuracy.