The EPA tightens EtO rules: What cancer victims need to know about legal claims

In the earlier decades after EtO sterilization was patented, these companies emitted tons of EtO gas with little to no oversight, exposing the facility workers and residents in nearby communities. In 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency finally issued a ruling requiring around 90 facilities nationwide to reduce their EtO emissions by 90%. This ruling is an important step in acknowledging the danger of EtO exposure to humans.

Exposed workers and residents are still at risk of developing cancer from EtO

Ethylene oxide is a potent carcinogen that sterilization facilities usually emit as a colorless gas. This compound is an effective sterilizer because it can damage microorganisms' DNA, but the same property makes it dangerous to humans exposed to it. A person can be exposed to EtO gas for decades and not realize it, not knowing that exposure may have already increased their risk of developing cancer. The latency period for EtO-related cancer varies depending on the type of cancer, ranging from 9 to 20 years after exposure.

While the EPA ruling may help reduce cancer risk for future workers and residents, those who have already been exposed to EtO for decades are still facing the consequences of nearly 50 years of EtO sterilization.

What cancer victims need to know about filing compensation claims

Industry groups that use EtO continue to fight back against EPA policies, which means it may be difficult to pursue compensation claims against these companies. The 2024 EPA ruling does not automatically grant compensation to victims of EtO exposure, but it can be a useful tool in supporting an ethylene oxide claim. It is a formal acknowledgement of the harmful effects of EtO on public health, and it can serve as a basis for determining how unsafe your working or living conditions were. To fully utilize the EPA's policy for your ethylene oxide claim, contact ELG Law to discuss your case with our toxic exposure attorneys and our industrial hygiene expert. This evaluation is free for you, and you only need to provide the documents listed below.

The next step after toxic exposure: File your ethylene oxide claim for cancer

These recent regulation updates and industry news may be confusing at first, but do not hesitate to file a legal claim if you believe your cancer diagnosis is related to your EtO exposure. ELG Law has a team of experienced attorneys who can pursue your compensation claim on your behalf. We only need your proof of EtO exposure (proof of residence or employment records) and medical documents to evaluate your case and see if you're eligible.