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Case Study: A pair of workers with ozone inhalation

Two men were working cleaning the grids underneath the slab yards at a large steel manufacturing plant.  During steel processing, the steel slab is compressed and rolled out.  It is treated with various chemicals, which fall through a grid and are collected into large shallow vats located under floor level.  The workers were cleaning the grids by hand, knocking off the accumulated debris.  They were not wearing respiratory protection, because the available masks were under repair.

After working for about 10 minutes, both noticed an irritant smell but did not take much notice as the area often had an odour.  Shortly afterwards however, they noticed irritation of the throat and chest tightness, which gradually became worse.  Both hurriedly exited the area, but symptoms continued and eventually both began to cough.  They were given oxygen at the First Aid area, which helped, although both continued to feel breathless.  Over the next 12 hours, both gradually improved and did not require hospital admission, although one was left with a residual cough for some months.

Occupational hygiene sampling in the area simulating the work performed demonstrated ozone levels above the recommended short-term exposure limit.  Ozone is commonly used in several industrial processes and is often used in industry (as here) as an oxidising agent.  It has a characteristic pungent odour and is an irritant to mucous membranes.  Because it is only moderately soluble in water, it readily penetrates to the small airways and alveoli and may cause pulmonary oedema even after brief exposure.  Here, its irritant characteristics prevented significant lung damage but even such a brief exposure produced significant respiratory symptoms.  The lesson for company and workers alike is to consider potential hazards, make sure working conditions are well ventilated, and never to perform a job without appropriate protective equipment!