EtO Removal Efficiency at Sterilization Facility

Key personnel at Specialty Consulting, Inc. (SPC), spearheaded a critical project focused on determining ambient level ethylene oxide (EtO) removal efficiencies at a medical equipment sterilization facility. Responsibilities included managing the entire test program, from developing the test protocol to leading the field crew onsite for safe and efficient execution of the methodology.

To accurately measure EtO removal efficiencies, they installed a temporary Continuous Emissions Monitoring System (CEMS) and operated an MKS MultiGas 2030 FTIR with Starboost technology, alongside a standard configuration MKS MultiGas 2030 FTIR. They also acted as the lead FTIR technician throughout the project.

One of the unique challenges faced was ensuring compliance with EPA Methods 1-4 and Method 320 while minimizing disruptions to the facility's operations and neighboring residential areas. To overcome this, meticulous calibration and quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) procedures were developed for the temporary CEMS, and post-mobilization spectral analyses were meticulously conducted.

In the end, they successfully reduced the gathered data and prepared a comprehensive test report. This report highlighted important findings and trends and provided valuable insights into the implications of EtO removal efficiencies on occupational safety and environmental impact, showcasing his expertise and dedication to the project's success.