Ozone (O3)

Ozone (O3) is a highly reactive gas that, while beneficial in the upper atmosphere, poses significant health and environmental risks at ground level. In waste management and indoor agriculture, ozone exposure can lead to respiratory irritation, lung damage, and other long-term health problems for workers. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set a permissible exposure limit (PEL) of 0.1 ppm for ozone in the workplace to protect personnel. Similarly, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has set a recommended exposure limit (REL) of 0.1 ppm over 8 hours, and a short-term exposure limit (STEL) of 0.3 ppm. In these industries, where ozone can be generated by equipment used for sterilization, disinfection, or odor control, continuous monitoring is essential to ensure that ozone levels remain within safe limits and do not exceed regulatory thresholds.

In waste management facilities, ozone is often produced by high-voltage electrical equipment and used in air purification systems to control odors from decomposing organic waste. However, poor ventilation in enclosed areas like waste processing rooms can lead to hazardous ozone concentrations, posing risks to workers. Similarly, in indoor agriculture, ozone is sometimes employed to sterilize growing areas or treat water, but without proper controls, it can build up in confined spaces, potentially harming both workers and plants. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also stressed the need to reduce ground-level ozone due to its harmful effects on both human health and the surrounding environment.

Managing ozone risks in these industries requires effective ventilation systems and the installation of ozone detectors in areas prone to accumulation, such as waste storage zones and greenhouse enclosures. In waste management, these systems can prevent ozone from reaching dangerous levels, while in indoor agriculture, ozone sensors ensure that sterilization processes do not compromise worker safety or plant health. Regular maintenance of equipment that generates ozone, combined with real-time monitoring systems, helps minimize both health risks and damage to materials. To further ensure safety, frequent calibration of ozone detection devices is necessary to maintain accurate readings and enable prompt corrective actions when needed.

Applications