A professional sanitization in the workplace is necessary today because of the pandemic caused by Covid-19. Ozone serves as an effective sanitizer in workplaces and vehicles that transport medical and non-medical personnel. Ozone generators are increasingly in the spotlight because of its proven effectiveness against COVID-19 spread. Continue reading to learn more about how workplace safety with ozone is ensured.

What is Ozone Treatment?

Unlike the most common oxygen molecule in the atmosphere (O2), ozone (O3) is a triatomic molecule made of three oxygen atoms. As a result of this structural characteristic, ozone is extremely unstable, as the third oxygen atom tends to detach from the third oxygen atom, causing it to react with other compounds. Disinfection is accomplished by using these properties. Bactericidal activity of ozone is already evident at very low concentrations (13g/dm3), exceeding chlorine by 50 times, and working 3,000 times faster.

Ozone’s high penetration capacity is one of its many advantages. Ozone can be used in closed spaces as well as for disinfecting water. Among its other uses are in agriculture and industry, such as disinfecting food and grain prior to sowing. In the form of a gas, it penetrates the smallest spots, including the interiors of furniture and ventilation ducts. Also, it disinfects materials inside mechanical devices (e.g., upholstery and carpets). Cars are often prepared for sale by using ozone treatments.  

Electrical discharges turn the air into ozone when it passes through the electrical discharge area. By using an UV lamp, an ozone generator can also generate ozone using UV radiation. Due to the fact that both methods require electricity, both are very simple and economical.

Ozone for Workplace Environment

The workplace environments have become routinely treated with ozone as a method of maintenance. As a result of gatherings and movements in small spaces, as well as items used by many employees (computers, cellphones, printers), the workplace is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and viruses.

 Especially with older air conditioning systems and in open–space offices, this problem is evident. Likewise, conference rooms, canteens, and kitchens require regular use of ozone disinfection. Studies have shown that disinfecting offices regularly reduces sick leave among employees.  

People who breathe clean air and work in hygienic conditions are not only healthier, but also feel better and perform better. When no one in the building is working, it is best to apply ozone at night or on weekends. It is nevertheless important that the given space is properly isolated and protected against unauthorized entry if this is not possible.

Ensure you do the proper preparation before you turn on the ozone generator. Keeping its concentration relatively high for a sufficient period of time is needed to achieve the desired effect. Sealing the windows and doors carefully, as well as any other potential air leaks, is important here. In addition to ozone’s disinfecting capabilities, its strong oxidizing properties also eliminate the odor in the indoor environment.

Taking valuable items out of the room or covering them before ozone treatment might be a good idea (paintings, leather furniture). The removal of animals (including aquarium fish) and plants from disinfected areas is also essential. For optimal results, place the ozone on a surface such as a cupboard in the middle of the room.

Many types of workplace odors can be effectively removed by ozone generators. You only need to turn the timer dial to run for few minutes after the last person leaves at night. Ozone will fill the room. In the break room, on the walls, carpets, and on furniture, it oxidizes odors effectively.  

After the treatment, no trace of an odor reaches employees and customers in the workplace. The ozone generator does not leave behind a residue that general chemicals solutions do. It can boost productivity and decrease sick days if your workplace is regularly disinfected.

Since odors may be trapped in the ductwork, it is generally best to treat the entire building at one time. To circulate the O3 throughout the building, the fan can be turned on the thermostat. You should seal off all supply vents and tape the return vent closed if only treating one room.  

The Effectiveness of Ozone Disinfection

In a properly carried out treatment, ozone destroys 99% of microorganisms, is quick, and is completely safe. A room’s size and the generator’s efficiency are taken into account when calculating the time needed to disinfect it. Therefore, the type of ozone generator chosen should be determined by its technical specifications.

The user manual of an ozone generator usually includes information on how to use it correctly. A few minutes are usually enough for ozone treatment. Then, let the room breathe well after turning off the generator (ozone turns into harmless oxygen during this time).

Nevertheless, you must keep in mind that this method will only provide temporary relief from the problem – the length of time this will last is based on the cause of the problem. When it comes to heavy smoking or after renovation, one treatment is usually not enough to remove unpleasant odors. So you may need to repeat the treatment process again. When you renovate run-down and neglected spaces for residential use, you need to repeat the process several times.  

The cause of the unpleasant odors should also be determined before using the ozone generator. The ozone treatment will only work for a short time if the problem is, for example, a sewage system smell or a damp floor. Animal-related odors are also reappeared after some time if there is still an animal present after treatment.

Ozone treatment of automobiles and their air conditioners is usually performed when the car or the air conditioner is emitting unpleasant odors. As a precaution, some drivers do it once a year, usually after winter – as a preventative measure. Particularly for people with respiratory issues or weakened immune systems, this approach is recommended.

Bottom Line

A frequent and regular schedule of decontamination should be followed in public facilities (such as schools, hospitals), as well as workplaces, restaurants and beauty salons. Keeping the environment clean and removing pathogenic microorganisms in the process will help you maintain a high level of hygiene.

All things considered, it is worthy to give ozone generator a chance to ensure the safety of your workplace.