Supply Chain Logistics

The supply chain logistics industry is responsible for the shipment and distribution of billions of medical devices across the globe. These pallets of medical devices are often mass sterilized using Ethylene Oxide (EtO) gas by the medical device manufacturer or a third-party contract sterilizer. While EtO is very effective at killing harmful bacteria, it may produce hazardous off-gassing post-sterilization. This places logistics workers at risk of harmful exposure.

 
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Gas Applications

Medical devices that are sterilized with EtO and then shipped to their final destination using a third-party logistics provider may continue to off-gas. During transport, EtO accumulates in trucks and exposes workers who receive and unload these shipments. Once in storage facilities, the off-gassing continues and accumulation of emissions can often exceed OSHA’s permissible exposure limit. 

Permissible Exposure Limits

Because of the exposure risks associated with EtO, occupational exposure limits and safety guidelines have been developed and are closely monitored by governing bodies.

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Monitoring Solutions

ChemDAQ has been a leader in EtO monitoring solutions in the U.S. for more than 20 years, and we are committed to ensuring the safety of all workers involved in the transport of sterilized medical instruments. Several of our monitoring solutions are designed to give logistics providers the tools they need to know if and when to accept or reject a shipment and ensure logistics professionals are safe from toxic off-gassing.

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Steri-Trac® Sensor

EtO detection sensors are notorious for being sensitive to other gasses. ChemDAQ’s Steri-Trac Sensor features patented filter technology that prevents gasses, such as alcohols and carbon monoxide from interfering with accurate readings of EtO.

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Steri-Trac® Series

ChemDAQ’s Steri-Trac 2 area monitor continuously and simultaneously measures EtO vapor levels in the air. This fixed monitoring system can be installed at multiple points throughout the facility to keep workers safe around-the-clock and alert you if and when hazardous levels occur.

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Sensor Communication Interface (SCI™)

The SCI is a multi-configurable monitoring solution to accurately and reliably detect vapors throughout your facility and communicate readings to a compatible data system for enhanced connectivity.

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Need help determining which monitoring system best fits your needs? We can help!

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Leading Logistics Companies Choose ChemDAQ

Browse the Other Industries We Serve

Healthcare

Hospitals rely on  H₂O₂ ,  PAA  and  EtO  to sterilize medical instruments needed in patient care. This essential task requires workers to employ high concentrations in Sterile Processing Departments, placing them at risk of exposure.

Food & Beverage Packaging

H₂O₂  and  PAA  are used in high concentrations and in large quantities through aseptic packaging operations to ensure the safe production and extended shelf life of common food and beverage products.

Protein Processing

PAA  is used in poultry and meat processing.  PAA  is distributed to various areas of the processing plant to kill harmful bacteria on meat and surfaces to meet USDA food safety guidelines.

Medical Device 

More than 50% of all medical devices used in the U.S. are sterilized with  EtO . While an effective sterilizing agent,  EtO  is known to produce harmful gas vapors and off-gas from sterilized units, putting workers at risk of exposure.


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