Two Sterigenics facilities found to be emitting ethylene oxide at dangerous levels will remain open as South Coast AQMD continues an investigation.
The medical sterilizer facilities in Vernon that were found in violation of emitting a carcinogen at elevated levels will not be shuttered.
“South Cost AQMD is working with the operator of Sterigenics on immediate and near-term actions, including measures to reduce EtO missions,” Wayne Nastri, the executive officer, stated in the letter. “We are cooperating with the South Coast Air Quality Management District and have already made considerable progress to address the concerns that have been raised regarding our Vernon facilities,” the spokesperson said. “Sterigenics is implementing additional, voluntary enhancements at the facilities to further reduce emissions.”
According to the EPA, ethylene oxide in the air around facilities is unlikely to pose any immediate health effects, but inhaling high amounts can cause headache, nausea and respiratory irritation. Long-term exposure to the gas increases the risk of cancer, including breast cancer and leukemia. The nearest residential area, Maywood, is approximately 500 feet from the facilities, according to SCAQMD.
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Health concerns raised over toxicity of gas used at 5 Southern California facilitiesLA County supervisor calls for temporary closure of the Sterigenics medical sterilizing plant in Vernon over ethylene oxide, which also is used at plants in Ontario, Carson and Temecula.
Read more »
Billie Eilish, Shawn Mendes, Coldplay & More Sign Global Citizen Letter Urging Action Against Poverty & Climate ChangeBillie Eilish, Coldplay, Shawn Mendes and other celebs partner with GlblCtzn on a letter calling for action against poverty and climate change.
Read more »
Average San Diego County gas price remains over $6 per gallon -SAN DIEGO (KUSI) – The average price of a gallon of self-serve regular gasoline in San Diego County dropped one-tenth of a cent Monday to a record $6.025, one day after increasing two-tenths of a cent. The average price is 6.7 cents more than one week ago, 28.4 cents higher than one month ago and $1.862 greater than one year...
Read more »