Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) Sterile Processing Technician Practice Exam 2025 - Free Sterile Processing Technician Practice Questions and Study Guide

In a setting where 100% ethylene oxide (EO) cartridges or their mixtures are stored, maintaining proper ventilation is crucial to ensure safety and minimize the risks associated with the toxicity of EO gas. The correct answer indicates that a minimum of 10 air exchanges per hour is required in these storage areas.

This higher rate of air exchanges helps to dilute and remove potentially harmful concentrations of ethylene oxide from the air. Ethylene oxide is a known carcinogen and can pose serious health risks if inhaled. Implementing the requirement for 10 air changes per hour ensures that any EO gas that may leak or volatilize is quickly dispersed, significantly reducing the risk of exposure for personnel working in or around the area.

In environments handling hazardous materials such as EO, it is essential to follow established safety standards and guidelines, which typically dictate specific ventilation rates to protect the health and safety of workers. The requirement for 10 air exchanges is derived from regulations and best practices in industrial hygiene and safety within the healthcare environment, positioning it as the best answer based on this context.