What Is ETO? — Why Fixed Detectors Are Essential
Ethylene oxide (ETO, C₂H₄O) is indispensable in hospital medical device sterilization, pharmaceutical synthesis, and pesticide fumigation. However, it is classified by IARC as a Group 1 definite human carcinogen, with a flammable range starting at just 3.6% LEL — making continuous fixed monitoring essential, especially in 24/7 operated sterilization rooms.
ETO Health Effects by Concentration
| Concentration (ppm) | Duration | Health Effects |
|---|---|---|
| 1 ppm | 8 hr TWA | Korean OSHA permissible limit |
| 5 ppm | Short-term | Eye, nose, throat irritation; headache |
| 50 ppm | Minutes | Nausea, chest pain, respiratory damage |
| Chronic | Long-term | Leukemia, lymphoma, breast cancer risk |
How FIX800 Could Have Prevented ETO Accidents
- 1Automatic night alarm: FIX800 triggers light/sound alarms immediately upon ETO detection and displays alerts on the FIX-DS display panel.
- 2Equipment interlock: Relay output can automatically stop sterilizer operation and activate forced ventilation.
- 35-gas simultaneous monitoring: ETO + O₂ + EX + CO + H₂S monitored with a single unit for comprehensive hazard coverage.
WANDI FIX800 Specifications
| Specification | FIX800 |
|---|---|
| Gas measurement | ETO, O₂, EX, CO, H₂S, CO₂, NH₃, O₃ — up to 5 simultaneously |
| Operation type | Fixed / 24-hour continuous monitoring |
| Alarm outputs | Audible + visual alarm + relay output (equipment interlock) |
| Display integration | FIX-DS LED display panel compatible |
A Closer Look at the WANDI FIX800
Below are real photos of the WANDI FIX800 fixed multi-gas detector.

