HEALTH HAZARDS OF OZONE
Detection Levels
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. As a result, DO NOT RELY ON ODOR AS A WARNING OF HIGH OZONE CONCENTRATIONS.
The permissible exposure level (PEL) or time weighted concentration for ozone to which workers may be exposed os 0.1 ppm averaged over 8 hours, 5 days a week (OSHA). The short term exposure limit is 0.3 ppm average over 15 minutes. The concentration of 10 ppm ozone in air is generally accepted as immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (DLH).
Effects on Humans
Ozone acts as a primary irritant, affecting mainly the eyes, upper respiratory tract and the lungs. Onset of pulmonary edema (fluid buildup in the lungs) may be delayed for a few hours after exposure. Inhaling ozone at concentrations of 50 ppm for 30 minutes can be fatal. Many people exposed to airborne ozone rapidly develop a headache, which often disappears after a few minutes in fresh air.
Reduction in lung function due to scar tissue forming in the lung may occur due to
The owner of any ozone installation should advise any person who may be exposed to ozone that those with a history of heart or respiratory disease should take every precaution to avoid exposure to ozone.
FIRST AID
General
First Action
1.If exposure to ozone causes headache or shortness of breath, immediately remove the patient to a fresh air environment.
Second Action
1.Workers who have been exposed to low concentra- tions of ozone should be given oxygen to breathe while under the observation of trained personnel.
2.If exposure is sever, send for medical assistance immediately.
Inhalation
First Action
1.Assess patient's breathing.
2.All unconscious patients must be placed in the drainage position (on their sides), so that fluids can drain from the airways once breathing has been restored.
3.Check pulse.
Second Action
1.If breathing has ceased, start artificial respiration (rescue breathing is the most effective) method until breathing has been restored.
2.Send for medical assistance immediately.
3.If absent, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Eye Contact
First Action
1.Effective irrigation should start immediately. Eyes should be irrigated for 30 minutes by the clock with running tap water or preferably normal saline.
Second Action
1.Effective irrigation must be continued while en route to hospital.
Precautions
Workers with a previous cardiopulmonary (heart and lung) condition must consult their physician prior to working in an area in which they may be exposed to ozone. Significant alterations in cardiopulmonary functions have been documented when such workers have been exposed to low concentration of ozone.
END OF DOCUMENT.
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