OSHA animal studies show that ethylene oxide (EtO) is a known carcinogen; it may cause leukemia and other cancers. Inhalation can cause nausea, vomiting, neurological disorders. In solution, EtO can severely irritate and burn the skin, eyes, and lungs and may damage the central nervous system, liver, and kidneys or cause cataracts.
Pros and cons of specific sterilants and disinfectants
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