Ozone generators are becoming more popular in households across the country. Though these machines have many benefits, there are some potential risks associated with their use. In this blog post, we will explore how to prevent ozone adverse effects while using an ozone generator.

The adverse and long-term effects of excessive ozone exposure have been well studied. Excess of several tenths to a few hundredths of a ppm of ozone has been reported to cause discomfort in a small susceptible portion of the population. You can read more about what levels of ozone are safe here. Exposures of short duration can cause headaches, dryness of the throat and mucous membranes of the eyes and nose.  

Based on a recent research, exposure to 10 to 20ppm or less for an hour or less is thought to be fatal in humans, although there has never been a verified fatality linked with ozone inhalation in more than 100 years of commercial use. (Compare with this experience with Chlorine as which has claimed many lives).

With respect to long-term or chronic toxicity, ozone is a radiomimetic agent, which means that the effects of long-term exposure to excessive ozone are similar to those of prolonged sunlight exposure. Ozone presents a variety of adverse health effects, including irritation and drying of the skin’s dermal surfaces, as well as overall deterioration in the exposed tissues. Ozone is not classified as a human carcinogen, and it does not exhibit tertogenic or mutagenic properties.

Safety Measures In Case Of Ozone Leak

In the event of an ozone leak:

  • Ventilate the area.
  • Immediately switch the ozone generator off.
  • Stop the flow of ozonated water.
  • If high levels of ozone are detected (over 0.1ppm), all people should evacuate the affected region until it has been ventilated properly.

When ozone levels exceed 0.3ppm, or when personnel are required to work in small spaces or tanks where ozone may be present, only persons wearing appropriate respiratory equipment should enter the zone and the correct safe working procedures for confined areas should be followed.

Bottom Line

As ozone generators become more popular, it is important to be aware of the potential toxicology of ozone and how to prevent adverse effects. By following the safety tips we have outlined in this blog post, you can help keep yourself and your loved ones safe while enjoying all the benefits that ozone generator has to offer.