14
•
Highly chemically reactive
•
Non-flammable, non-carcinogenic
•
Hazardous polymerization can occur in some rear materials
•
Spontaneously decomposes to oxygen gas
6B.2 Ozone Uses
•
Air and water disinfection
•
Surface sanitation
•
Water treatment plants
•
Bottled water, irrigation, community water supplies, swimming
pools/spas, etc.
•
Aquariums/life support
•
Agricultural wash water
•
Wastewater treatment
•
Mold and bacteria control in cold storage
6C. Hazards
6C.1 Health Hazards
–
Detection Levels
Gaseous ozone can be detected in air by its distinctive odor at concentrations of
about 0.02 ppm. Although each nose varies, olfactory fatigue occurs quickly.
Initial small exposure may reduce cell sensitivity and/or increase mucous
thickness producing a resistance to low gaseous ozone levels.
DO NOT RELY ON ODOR AS A WARNING OF HIGH OZONE
CONCENTRATIONS
. The Permissible Exposure Level (PEL) or time-weighted
concentration for gaseous ozone to which workers may be exposed is 0.1 ppm
averaged over 8 hours, 5 days a week (OSHA). The short-term exposure limit is
0.3 ppm averaged over 15 minutes. The concentration of 5.0 ppm ozone in air is
generally accepted as Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH).
6C.2 Health Hazards
–
Effects on Humans
Gaseous ozone acts as a primary irritant, affecting mainly the eyes, upper
respiratory tract and the lungs. Inhalation produces various degrees of
respiratory effects from irritation to pulmonary edema (fluid in lungs). Short
exposure to 1-2 ppm concentrations causes headache as well as irritation to the
respiratory system but symptoms subside when exposure ends. High
concentrations of ozone produce severe irritation to the eyes and respiratory
system. Exposure above the ACGIH/OSHA limits may produce nausea, chest
pain, coughing, fatigue, reduced visual acuity and pulmonary edema. Symptoms
of edema from excessive exposure can be delayed one or more hours. There is
no threshold limit and so no exposure (regardless of how small) is theoretically
without effect from ozone’s strong oxidative ability.
