Ethlene Oxide Exposure

Ethylene Oxide Exposure Attorneys

Helping Clients Who Have Been Exposed to Harmful Chemicals

Some manufacturers and companies use harmful chemicals for day to day operations that can cause serious injuries to workers and others who are exposed over long periods of time. Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a harmful chemical that can cause a person to develop cancer and other serious medical conditions.

Although environmental exposure to EtO is minimal due to how quickly the gas dissolves into the atmosphere, companies that rely on the chemical to manufacture products release high concentrations on a daily basis. As a result, companies like Sterigenics International in Willowbrook, Illinois are facing lawsuits over how EtO pollution is maintained.

Why Do Manufacturers Use Ethylene Oxide?

Companies often use ethylene oxide to sterilize products that can be damaged by traditional cleaning methods. Medical equipment and electronic parts are often sterilized with ethylene oxide.

For the past 30 years, Sterigenics International has used ethylene oxide to sterilize medical equipment. The following are the amounts of EtO emitted by the company since 1995, according to self-reports:

  • 1995: 18,213 lbs.
  • 1996: 22,000 lbs.
  • 1997: 26,000lbs.
  • 1998: 31,000lbs.
  • 1999: 1,440 lbs.
  • 2000: 7,341 lbs.
  • 2001: 7,848 lbs.
  • 2002: 6,686 lbs.
  • 2003: 6,630 lbs.
  • 2004: 5,039 lbs.
  • 2005: 2,621 lbs.
  • 2006: 3,985 lbs.
  • 2007: 3, 698 lbs.
  • 2008: 3,597 lbs.
  • 2009: 3,429 lbs.
  • 2010: 6,869 lbs.
  • 2011: 6,878 lbs.
  • 2012: 6,811 lbs.
  • 2013: 5,892 lbs.
  • 2014: 5,036 lbs.
  • 2015: 4,706 lbs.
  • 2016: 4,009 lbs.

Workers and residents who live near Sterigenics International have reported the following types of illnesses:

  • Lymphoma
  • Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
  • Leukemia
  • Breast Cancer
  • Lung Cancer
  • Brain Cancer
  • Uterine Cancer
  • Birth Defects & Miscarriages
  • Brain & Nerve Problems
  • Eye, Skin, & Mucus Membrane Irritation
  • Hodgkin’s Disease
  • Lung Tumors
  • Brain Tumors
  • Tear Gland Tumors

Was the Public Informed About the Risks of Ethylene Oxide?

The FDA has approved the use of ethylene oxide for sterilization purposes. In fact, the method is commonly used by manufacturers throughout the country. People who live near manufacturers that use ethylene oxide can be exposed to the chemical for years without ever realizing it.

Speak to a Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Do you think that you or a loved one have been exposed to ethylene oxide? If so, you should immediately get in touch with our legal team to review your case and determine your rights under the law. Our lawyers are dedicated to securing maximum compensation for our clients, and we will use our extensive resources and experience to build a legal strategy that will protect your rights and interests. Let us get started today.

Call (312) 888-8700 to schedule your free consultation with a Chicago personal injury attorney.

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