Park Nicollet Health Services was fined $18,750 for allegedly failing to keep records and submit reports on air emissions from Methodist Hospital, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced this week.
The health care company failed to properly document emissions from ethylene oxide equipment sterilizers used at the hospital in St. Louis Park, the EPA said.
Heavy exposure to ethylene oxide can lead to organ damage, convulsions and other ailments, according to federal health officials.
"After being notified of the violations, the company took steps to meet all requirements," the EPA said. Park Nicollet also agreed to spend $56,250 on lead abatement in low-income housing in St. Louis Park and Minneapolis.
JANE FRIEDMANN
