Table of Contents
Which areas are subject to bad ozone?
Ground-level, or “bad” ozone is found in the troposphere, the atmosphere closest to the earth’s surface (from the ground to about six miles up). “Good” ozone is in the stratosphere, in a layer approximately 10 miles from the Earth’s surface.
Where is ozone harmful to human health?
When inhaled, ozone can damage the lungs. Relatively low amounts of ozone can cause chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath and, throat irritation. It may also worsen chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma as well as compromise the ability of the body to fight respiratory infections.
What is the bad ozone called?
ground-level
Ozone is either considered “good” or “bad”, depending on where it occurs. “Good” ozone is also known as stratospheric and “bad” ozone is more commonly known as ground-level.
What is the ozone level and where is it located?
Most ozone (about 90%) is found in the stratosphere, which begins about 10–16 kilometers (6–10 miles) above Earth’s surface and extends up to about 50 kilo- meters (31 miles) altitude. The stratospheric region with the highest ozone concentration is commonly known as the “ozone layer” (see Figure Q1-2).
How can you tell if you are being affected by ozone?
People exposed to elevated levels of ozone may experience a variety of symptoms. The most common symptom is a feeling of irritation in the eyes, nose and throat. Some people may also experience respiratory or heart symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and wheezing.
What is an unhealthy ozone level?
Good (0-50) No health impacts are expected when air quality is in this range. Moderate (51-100) Unusually sensitive people should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion. Unhealthy for. Sensitive Groups. (101-150)
Can you recover from ozone exposure?
The effects are reversible, with improvement and recovery to baseline varying from a few hours to 48 hours after an elevated ozone exposure.
Is it safe to be in a room with an ozone machine?
In some cases, ozone machines can be safely used at home in low concentrations and safe levels as specified by OSHA or the EPA. Such a space can still be occupied while the machine is being used. However, that cannot be done when high ozone concentration is required such as for killing mold in the house.
How long does it take for ozone to dissipate?
3 to 4 hours
According to the Home Air Advisor, ozone lasts between 30 minutes and 4 hours before it converts back into oxygen. Higher levels of ozone concentration generally take 3 to 4 hours to dissipate, while lower levels can clear out in about 2 hours.
What are the symptoms of ozone exposure?