EPA to Reconsider Ethylene Oxide Emissions Standards for Medical Device Sterilizers

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced plans to reconsider emissions standards for medical device sterilization facilities as part of a broader deregulatory initiative. The agency is reviewing its final rule from last year, which aimed to cut ethylene oxide (EtO) emissions by over 90% to reduce cancer risks.

The MedTech industry previously raised concerns about potential sterilization capacity shortages, leading the EPA to grant a two-year compliance period. The Trump administration is considering a further two-year exemption while the rule is reassessed.