Measuring ethylene oxide
Insight into ethylene oxide as part of healthy indoor air
Ethylene oxide (EtO) is widely used in sterilisation processes. After sterilisation, residual EtO can be released from installations or products and may be present in indoor air, for example in storage areas or distribution centres.
By measuring ethylene oxide, organisations gain insight into indoor air quality and potential exposure. Measurement data shows whether additional measures are required to control workplace risks.
Why measuring ethylene oxide is important
Ethylene oxide is colourless and often hardly detectable at low concentrations. As a result, exposure is frequently underestimated while employees may still be at risk. Only measurement provides objective insight into the presence of EtO in the working environment.
Measuring ethylene oxide helps to:
- determine whether EtO is present in indoor air
- gain insight into concentrations and exposure levels
- assess potential health risks for employees
- make informed decisions about additional measures
This provides clarity about the situation and allows organisations to work systematically towards a safer working environment.
Legislation and exposure limits for ethylene oxide
Ethylene oxide is classified as a CMR substance (carcinogenic, mutagenic and toxic for reproduction). This means exposure can pose serious health risks and employers are required to minimise exposure as far as reasonably possible.
In the Netherlands, a legal occupational exposure limit applies for ethylene oxide of 0.46 ppm (0.84 mg/m³) as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) in the workplace.
At the same time, CMR substances are considered to have no truly safe threshold level. For this reason, the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) applies: exposure should always be kept as low as reasonably possible.
Measurements play an important role. By gaining insight into the presence and concentration of ethylene oxide, organisations can determine whether additional measures are required to reduce workplace risks.
From measuring ethylene oxide to controlling risks
Measurement is always a first step. When measurements show that ethylene oxide is present, it is important to consider long-term solutions.
Euromate provides air cleaning and gas filtration solutions developed for environments where ethylene oxide may occur. These solutions help reduce EtO concentrations in the air and can be applied alongside existing process and control measures.
In this way, measurement results are translated into a lasting improvement in air quality and a safer workplace.
When is measuring ethylene oxide relevant?
Measuring ethylene oxide is particularly relevant in environments where EtO is used or where products are present that have been sterilised with ethylene oxide, such as:
- warehouses and distribution centres storing sterilised medical devices
- sterilisation facilities
- pharmaceutical environments
If there is uncertainty about whether ethylene oxide may play a role in a specific situation, a measurement can help provide insight.
Frequently asked questions about measuring ethylene oxide
Ethylene oxide is a colourless gas widely used for the sterilisation of medical products. Exposure can be highly harmful to human health.
Because EtO is often not visible or immediately detectable. Measurement provides objective insight into the presence and concentration of the gas.
Euromate works with specialised measurement partners and supports the entire process from measurement to solution.
The measurement results are interpreted and advice is provided on possible measures to reduce ethylene oxide levels in the air.
Would you like insight into ethylene oxide levels in your working environment?
