Ethylene Oxide (EtO)

On August 3, 2022, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the findings from studies conducted in the area surrounding a sterilization plant in South Memphis. The plant, located at 2396 Florida Street in southwest Memphis, is operated by Sterilization Services of Tennessee and uses a chemical gas called ethylene oxide to sterilize medical equipment. 

The facility is in compliance with the EPA’s current rules and regulations. However, the EPA has new information about EtO emissions at certain commercial sterilizer facilities in 23 locations around the country, including the one in Memphis. EPA is engaging with communities near those facilities to develop more protective Clean Air Act standards for EtO emissions.  

Shelby County Health Department is hosting a follow up community meeting in association with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) in South Memphis on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. 

What: EtO Informational Meeting
When: Tuesday, March 28, 2023, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Where: Monumental Baptist Church, 704 S. Pkwy E., Memphis, TN, 38106 
Join virtually: https://tinyurl.com/EtOMeeting

Click here for answers to some frequently asked questions about ethylene oxide and potential health impacts.