Have you ever read an MSDS sheet on an oxidizer? Keep in mind that you are oxidizable. MSDS sheets typically do not explain the difference between short exposure and the effects of long term misuse. Ozone is very environmentally friendly in fact it oxidizes other compounds that are bad for the environment. It is however a very strong oxidizer and is toxic to breath as ozone. It has several characteristics that have helped it to have a very impressive safety record. It has a very conspicuous smell so that it can be detected in the PPB range by the nose. It’s kind of like ammonia in that if there is a leak you are typically aware and able to take corrective action in a safe manner. In the long history of commercial use (more than 80 years) I am not aware of any deaths from ozone gas. There are some people that have been electrocuted working on equipment and that is tragic but I am forced to point out that such occurrences are not limited to industry or Ozone equipment but to anything where there is high voltage.

Ozone properly applied and controlled can be of great worth to industry. It goes without saying that if it is not used properly it will prove of little value. I hope that this has been informative and as always If you have any questions regarding ozone or its application in industry please feel free to contact me I will be happy to be of assistance if I am able.

Scott Decker                         President Envirozone Systems Corp