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5C.i Health Hazards – Detection Levels
Gaseous ozone can be detected in the air by its distinctive odor
at concentrations of about 0.02 ppm. Although each nose var-
ies, olfactory fatigue occurs quickly.
Initial small exposure may reduce cell sensitivity and/or increase
mucous thickness producing 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 concen-
tration 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 the air is generally ac-
cepted as Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH).
5C.ii Health Hazards – Effect on Humans
Gaseous ozone acts as a primary irritant, affecting mainly the
eyes, upper respiratory tract, and lungs. Inhalation produces
various degrees of respiratory effects from irritation to pulmo-
nary edema (fluid in the lungs). Short exposure to 1-2 ppm con-
centrations causes headaches as well as irritation to the respira-
tory 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 lim-
its 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.
SECTION 5 OVERVIEW AND SAFETY PROCEDURES
Summary of Contents for NANO 15
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