Ethylene Oxide (EtO) Lawsuit

People who live near plants that use ethylene oxide (EtO) to sterilize products may be at an increased risk of cancer due to air emissions. Many of these individuals are filing lawsuits against EtO plants and manufacturers of the gas. These lawsuits allege that the companies were aware of the risks and failed to take adequate precautions to protect local residents. 

This page provides information about ethylene oxide, lawsuits involving ethylene oxide, and steps individuals can take if they or a loved one who developed cancer due to exposure to the chemical. 

Ethylene Oxide (ETO) Lawsuit Timeline & News – August 2025

July 25, 2025: Federal Lawsuit Filed Against Eastman Chemical Co.

Plaintiffs filed a lawsuit in federal court alleging that Eastman Chemical Co. knowingly exposed residents and workers to EtO near its Longview, TX, plant. The complaint cites records claiming the plant released 565,000 pounds of the gas into the surrounding area between 1987 and 2022, not including accidental releases. Emissions of this volume likely endangered locals.

July 17, 2025: Executive Order Delays Enforcement Of EPA ETO Rules 

President Trump issued a proclamation suspending the enforcement of the EPA’s 2024 EtO rules for two years for specified medical sterilization companies. The order claims that the technology to comply with the EPA’s rule is not currently commercially viable and that enforcing the rule would constitute a national security risk. Many of the companies named are involved in EtO lawsuits, including Sterigenics, KPR, and BD (formerly C.R. Bard).

May 2, 2025: Retired Truck Driver Awarded $20 Million in ETO Lawsuit

A jury awarded Gary Walker, a retired truck driver diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, $20 million in a personal injury lawsuit against Becton, Dickinson, and Co. Walker was exposed to ethylene oxide emitted by the company’s Covington, GA, facility for over 47 years.

March 29, 2025: Illinois Residents Share $48.1 Million Emissions Settlement

Isomedix agreed to settle multiple lawsuits filed by residents of Waukegan, IL, who claimed they were impacted by the company’s release of EtO into the atmosphere. The settlement came after a trial with one of the plaintiffs, who had twice been diagnosed with cancer, ended in a mistrial.

November 15, 2024: Cosmed Group Files Chapter 11 After Being Named In Hundreds Of Lawsuits

Rhode Island-based sterilization company, Cosmed Group Inc., files for bankruptcy in Houston, TX, after being named in 300 or more ethylene oxide lawsuits. Cosmed utilizes EtO to sterilize medical equipment and agricultural products. 

March 14, 2024: EPA Announces Rule To Reduce Emissions Of Ethylene Oxide

The EPA announces new regulations governing commercial sterilization facilities that use ethylene oxide. The rule establishes standards for unregulated emissions like leaks and exhaust vents, strengthens existing standards, and requires continuous monitoring and reporting.

October 19, 2023: Sterigenics Settles 79 Atlanta-area ETO Lawsuits For $35 Million 

Sterigenics and Sotera Health LLC agree to settle 79 lawsuits associated with its Smyrna, GA, plant. Plaintiffs allege they were exposed to ethylene oxide released from the plant. The companies, however, said the settlements were not an admission of guilt and that they would challenge any remaining lawsuits.

January 19, 2023: $408 Million Settlement Reached In Illinois Lawsuit

Sotera Health LLC, the parent company of Sterigenics, announced a $408 million payout to over 870 pending lawsuits against the company. The lawsuits allege that Sterigenics released carcinogenic ethylene oxide into the air near its Willowbrook, IL, plant, which shuttered in 2019. 

August 18, 2005: Cosmed Hit With $1.5 Million Penalty For Clean Air Act Violations

After violating “Maximum Achievable Control Technology” standards, Cosmed Group Inc. agrees to a $1 million settlement with the EPA, along with a $500,000 fee. The alleged violations took place at six sites owned by the company in Maryland, Texas, California, Rhode Island, New Jersey, and Illinois, each of which utilizes ethylene oxide.

What Are the Ethylene Oxide Lawsuits About?

Ethylene oxide (EtO) lawsuits allege that plaintiffs developed certain types of cancer after being exposed to air emissions from industrial plants. The lawsuits accuse EtO manufacturers of failing to protect people from the harmful effects of EtO. The gas is commonly used to sterilize equipment that cannot be cleaned with steam, notably medical equipment and spices. It is also used in the creation of other products, like antifreeze and plastics.The EPA warns that long-term exposure to EtO, whether occupationally or by living near a facility that releases the chemical into the air, can substantially raise one’s risk of developing certain types of cancer.

How Are People Exposed to Ethylene Oxide?

People are exposed to ethylene oxide when they inhale the gas. In the average person’s day-to-day life, this is unlikely to happen. However, individuals who work in or live near sterilization facilities or plants that use ethylene oxide may be regularly exposed to EtO. 

Although the EPA regulates EtO emissions, many of these facilities still release large quantities of the gas into the atmosphere. Similarly, people who have lived near plants for long periods of time may have been exposed to higher emissions before new regulations went into effect.

Why Are People Filing Ethylene Oxide Lawsuits?

Plaintiffs in ethylene oxide lawsuits claim they, or the individual on whose behalf they are filing, developed cancer as a result of long-term exposure to EtO. In particular, people exposed to the gas have an elevated risk of developing blood cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. 

These individuals are seeking compensation for their pain and suffering, medical bills,  loss of earning potential, and other damages. People filing ethylene oxide lawsuits say companies who made and used the gas knew it was dangerous. However, they did not take adequate action to protect people from harmful emissions.

Whom Are People Filing Ethylene Oxide Lawsuits Against?

According to the EPA, there are about 90 commercial sterilization facilities throughout the U.S., which are operated by around 50 companies. Many of these companies have been named in lawsuits filed by area residents who say they were harmed by plant emissions.

Among the defendants named in ethylene oxide lawsuits are:

Allegations Against These Manufacturers

The lawsuits allege that the companies in question negligently released EtO into the atmosphere with the knowledge that it posed a health risk to surrounding communities. These companies may also be in violation of EPA standards governing emissions. Other allegations include that plant owners did not take adequate steps to keep ethylene oxide from escaping sterilization chambers.

What Is Ethylene Oxide and What Is It Used For?

Ethylene oxide (C2H4O) is an organic compound used in industrial processes, most notably in sterilization and the production of ethylene glycol, which is used to create a wide variety of industrial products. At room temperature, EtO is a volatile, reactive gas with a slightly sweet odor. EtO is an alkylating agent, which means it can disrupt cellular functions and enzymes of microorganisms by replacing hydrogen atoms with an alkyl group. This makes it effective for cleaning sensitive medical or electronic instruments that may not be able to withstand the heat or moisture of steam, such as the cameras and cables used in minimally invasive surgery. The same properties that make it effective at sterilizing also make it harmful to other forms of life, including humans.

Ethylene Oxide and Human Health

The effects of ethylene oxide are largely derived from animal studies and studies of individuals who work with or in proximity to EtO. Though studies show potential risks to cardiovascular, neurological, endocrine, and reproductive systems, the carcinogenic effects of EtO are the most well-studied.

Although EtO can cause acute (immediate) symptoms like headache, fatigue, and dizziness, the EPA’s current understanding of the gas does not consider short-term exposure to be a substantial health risk to humans. The cancer risk to humans, and children in particular, comes from long-term exposure.

People exposed to ethylene oxide are at an increased risk of developing:

Where Are EtO Facilities Located?

Most states, and Puerto Rico, have at least one EtO sterilization facility. States that have ethylene oxide facilities include: 

When chemical plants are also included, an estimated 654 facilities throughout the U.S. emit EtO. Around 31 of these facilities, comprising 11 commercial sterilizers and 20 chemical plants, were found to be among the most egregious emitters of ethylene oxide.

EPA Warnings About Ethylene Oxide Exposure

The EPA’s current EtO warnings are centered around long-term exposure to ethylene oxide. These risks are broken down into two categories:

• Risks to individuals who work with EtO
• Risks to residents and workers who are in physical proximity to EtO facilities and processes but who do not directly work with EtO

The EPA considers sterilization procedures carried out at healthcare facilities to be a lower risk than those done at commercial sterilization facilities due to the amount of EtO used. Additionally, the EPA does not consider using products sterilized with ethylene oxide to constitute a health risk. This means that the EPA does not think medical professionals are at an increased risk of EtO-related cancers.

List of Highest-Risk EtO Facilities in the United States

The EPA has identified 26 EtO facilities in the U.S. as presenting the highest health risks to their surrounding communities. While this list may not be all-inclusive, long-term residents near these facilities should be aware of their elevated risk of cancer. 

Facilities that have historically high levels of EtO emissions include :

• Terumo BCT Sterilization Service, Inc. (Lakewood, CO)
• Cosmed Group LLC (Erie, PA)
• International Sterilization Laboratory (Groveland, FL)
• American Contract Systems Inc. (Zelienople, PA)
• Professional Contract Sterilization Inc. (Taunton, MA)
• Edwards Lifesciences (Anasco, PR)
• Elite Spice Inc. (Hanover, MD)
• Customed Inc. (Fajardo, PR)
• Elite Spice Inc. (Jessup, MD)
• Steri-Tech Inc. (Salinas, PR)
• Trinity Sterile Inc. (Salisbury, MD)
• Medtronic PR Operation Co. (Villaba, PR)
• Midwest Sterilization Corp. (Jackson, MO)
• DeRoyal Industries (New Tazewell, TN)
• Becton Dickinson Pharmaceutical Systems (Columbus, NE)
• Sterilization Services of Tennessee (Memphis, TN)
• Cosmed Group Inc. (Franklin, NJ)
• Steri-Tech Inc. (Athens, TX)
• ETO Sterilization-Plant #2 (Linden, NJ)
• Midwest Sterilization Corp. (Laredo, TX)
• Sterigenics US LLC (Queensbury, NY)
• BD Medical (Sandy, UT)
• LEMCO Ardmore (Ardmore, OK)
• Sterilization Services of Virginia (Henrico, VA)
• B Braun Med Inc. (Allentown, PA)

EPA Actions Taken Against Ethylene Oxide Manufacturers

The EPA has recently taken action on ethylene oxide emissions. These actions, which the EPA claims will cut EtO emissions from commercial sterilizers by 90%, include:

• Strengthening emission-related equipment and maintenance standards
• Monitoring of emissions
• Setting percentage-based emissions cut targets for existing facilities

However, the Trump administration has imposed a two-year delay on the enforcement of the new rules for specifically named facilities. This means some facilities will have more time to meet EPA emissions standards.

What Damages Can People Sue Ethylene Oxide Companies For?

People who have developed cancer after ethylene oxide exposure may be able to sue sterilization facilities or chemical plants for damages. While circumstances may vary depending on the nature of the injury and details an individual’s life, here are some potential damages that could apply to an EtO lawsuit:

• Medical expenses:
  • Cancer screenings and tests
  • Cancer treatments (medications, surgeries, etc.)
  • Projected medical costs
• Lost wages:
  • Income lost due to debilitation from cancer
  • Loss of future earning capacity due to cancer
• Pain and suffering:
  • Physical pain related to a cancer diagnosis or treatment
  • Emotional pain related to a cancer diagnosis or treatment
• Loss of quality of life:
  • Compensation for a reduced ability to perform activities and hobbies
  • Loss of companionship of a spouse or partner
• Wrongful death:
  • In cases where a family member is suing on behalf of someone who died from an EtO-induced cancer
• Permanent disability or disfigurement:
  • Compensation for long-term damage from cancer or cancer treatment
• Legal fees and costs:
  • Compensation for costs related to the case.

Who Qualifies to File an Ethylene Oxide Lawsuit?

In order to file an ethylene oxide exposure lawsuit, each person has to meet certain eligibility requirements. Our legal partners are focusing on the specific injuries listed below:

• Leukemia
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
• Multiple myeloma
• Breast cancer
• Lung cancer
• Liver cancer

Additionally, your attorney has to prove that your diagnosis is linked to exposure to ethylene oxide. This typically means living near a facility that emits EtO or working with the chemical in some capacity. People who worked at plants would have to file workers compensation claims, unless they lived close to the plant that employed them. Please note that eligible conditions may change as more scientific and legal evidence becomes available.

What Proof Do You Need to File an EtO Lawsuit?

An EtO lawsuit, like any other lawsuit, requires evidence. In order to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit, you and your legal team will need to collect the following proof 

• Evidence of exposure
• Evidence of diagnosis and treatments
• Evidence showing losses
• Testimonies

These elements will help support your claim.

Evidence of Ethylene Oxide Exposure

• Proof of residence or employment near an ethylene oxide plant, including:
  • W2s, 1099s, utility bills, mortgages, leases
• Timeline of residence, including:
  • Dated versions of the above that can show continuous residence or employment at an employer located near an EtO facility

Evidence Of Diagnosis and Treatments

• Medical records, including:
  • Documentation of use: Records showing you (or a deceased loved one) were diagnosed with a qualifying illness related to EtO exposure, typically a cancer diagnosis
  • Diagnosis records: Proof of diagnosis, pathology reports, MRI or CT scan results, or other imaging tests, showing the diagnosis and extent of your disease.
  • Hospitalizations or doctor and specialist appointments
• Treatment Records: Documentation of treatments received for your cancer, such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or other medications
• Pharmacy Records: Detailed records showing what medications you were prescribed related to your cancer treatment

Evidence Showing Losses

• Proof of Damages:
  • Financial Records: Documentation of financial losses due to medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to the qualifying injury
  • Impact on Quality of Life: Evidence showing how the diagnosis affected your quality of life, including work incapacity, loss of enjoyment, or psychological trauma
  • Pay stubs to demonstrate your previous or current income
  • Notes or records from therapy or counseling sessions related to the psychological impact of the diagnosis
  • Receipts for out-of-pocket expenses related to your treatment or care

Testimonies

• Personal Testimony: Your account of your onset of symptoms and the impact of cancer on your  life, including pain, suffering, and loss of income
•  Witness Testimony: Statements from family, friends, or coworkers corroborating the impact on your life.

8 Steps to File an Ethylene Oxide Lawsuit

Filing an ethylene oxide lawsuit is a complex process involving multiple steps and knowledge of federal and state law. Because of this, it is highly advisable to begin the process by consulting with an attorney who has experience in personal injury or environmental law.

These are the 8 steps for filing an ethylene oxide lawsuit:

1. Consult an attorney: Having your case evaluated by an experienced attorney can help set expectations and timelines for your claim and determine if your illnesses qualify you for an EtO lawsuit. 
2. Sign a retainer: Once you have chosen a law firm to represent your case, you need to sign a legal document that allows your attorney to represent you and specifies what that means.
3. Gather evidence and testimonies: This step involves gathering documentation and depositions that link your cancer diagnosis (or loved one’s death) to ethylene oxide exposure. You will also provide evidence of your losses, including costs related to your diagnosis and quantifiable impacts on your earning potential and quality of life. 
4. File the claim within your state’s statute of limitations: Your attorney will draft formal documentation to submit your claim. This must be done within the statute of limitations, which can vary by state and circumstances.
5. File the lawsuit in court: Your attorney will file the lawsuit in court. Your case may be filed individually, as part of a multidistrict litigation, or a class action.
6. Pre-trial procedures: Attorneys for both sides of the case will exchange evidence, perform additional investigation, and collect additional testimonies as needed. They may also negotiate a settlement if one can be reached.
7. Trial (if a settlement cannot be reached): Evidence and testimonies will be brought before a court where a judge or jury will determine liability.
8. Receive compensation (if awarded): If you’ve reached a settlement for your case or a jury rules in your favor, you will receive compensation for your damages.

What is the Deadline for Filing an Ethylene Oxide Lawsuit?

Personal injury and wrongful death suits need to be filed within a period of time called the statute of limitations. The statute of limitations typically begins from the date of your injury or the date of your loved one’s death. 

In some cases, the discovery rule may apply. In these cases, your statute of limitations begins from the discovery of the injury, such as when you received your cancer diagnosis. Similarly, if you only recently learned EtO exposure may have caused your cancer, you may still be able to file a viable lawsuit

The length of the statute of limitations varies from state to state, but typically falls between 1 and 3 years. Because the exact details of your case’s statute of limitations may vary, it’s advisable to get guidance from an attorney so you do not miss critical deadlines.

Ethylene Oxide Settlements and Awards

Ethylene oxide settlements can vary greatly depending on the extent of your damages, the strength of your case, the defense’s desire to settle out of court, and whether your case goes to trial. For example, a truck driver was awarded $20 million by a jury for his EtO injuries. On the other hand, Sotera Health settled with 97 plaintiffs for $30.9 million. However, settlements may be a less risky and preferred legal option for people who have been affected by EtO emissions.

Average Settlement Amounts

There’s no guaranteed settlement amount for an ethylene oxide case as the circumstances of each case are highly variable. However, an average settlement for an EtO lawsuit would likely land somewhere between $175,000 and $500,000.

Factors Affecting the Value of an Ethylene Oxide Lawsuit

Potential awards in an ethylene oxide case may be influenced by the following factors:

• Severity of Injury: Individuals with more aggressive or debilitating cancer may receive larger awards.
• Impact on Life: If an individual’s cancer more profoundly affected their quality of life, out-of-pocket expenses, earning potential, or relationships they may receive larger awards.
• Wrongdoing: If the commercial sterilizer or chemical plant has an established history of negligence or misconduct, a plaintiff may be awarded punitive damages, although this is not common.

Speak to an Attorney Experienced in Ethylene Oxide Lawsuits

The dangers of ethylene oxide exposure have led to a large number of lawsuits in recent years. If you lived near or worked near a facility that utilizes ethylene oxide and have a qualifying cancer diagnosis, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Contact our legal team for a free consultation with no obligations. Our team has years of experience taking on corporate polluters. We only get paid if we are able to secure compensation for your injuries.

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