Naples Standard

Congressman Byron Donalds of Florida shared an update regarding the American Contract Systems (ACS) facility in Fort Myers. According to a memorandum from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), ACS has installed two dry bed scrubbers aimed at reducing air pollution from their medical equipment sterilization processes.

The DEP reports that these scrubbers are 99.9% effective in lowering ethylene oxide (EtO) emissions, reducing daily emissions from approximately five pounds to less than 0.05 pounds. The agency conducted an inspection of the facility and is overseeing preliminary testing of the new equipment to ensure its effectiveness.

A full stack test using a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved method will be performed soon, with DEP oversight. The new controls are expected to lower risk levels below those previously modeled by the EPA for this facility.

The DEP has been involved in collecting emissions data for six commercial sterilization facilities across Florida, including ACS - Fort Myers, as part of a nationwide analysis by the EPA on EtO emissions. "DEP is aware that EPA intends to move forward with rulemaking to strengthen emission standards for EtO and that it will impact facilities throughout the U.S., including ACS – Fort Myers," said a statement from DEP.

In anticipation of stricter federal standards, ACS voluntarily installed these new emission controls which reduce risks significantly below previous EPA models. The facility, along with others in Florida, remains compliant with current federal air emissions standards and permit conditions.

"DEP is committed to protecting Florida’s air quality and looks forward to participating in the upcoming rulemaking effort," concluded the statement from DEP.