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The IQAir OzoneWatch was originally developed for NASA as a simple and convenient test for ozone. This test offers accurate results in only one hour.
What is Ozone?
There are two types of ozone gas at work in our atmosphere. "Upper-Level Ozone" is ozone that is part of the Earth's upper atmosphere. It is naturally occurring and provides critical protection from the sun's harmful UV rays. "Ground-Level Ozone" is found in the Earth's lower atmosphere. Here, however, ozone is not naturally occurring and is a harmful pollutant in the air we breathe. Ground-level ozone (the main component of smog) negatively affects the outdoor air quality in many industrialized cities. Indoor air quality can also suffer from the presence of ozone. Many common home and office appliances (such as copiers, laser printers, fax machines, electrostatic air cleaners, and ultraviolet lights) create ozone — thus creating an unhealthy indoor environment.
Effects of Ozone Exposure
Ozone is a harmful lung irritant that can cause a variety of health risks. Ozone exposure is particularly dangerous to individuals with existing lung conditions, such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. Even among healthy individuals, ozone can cause coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, and nasal congestion. Long-term exposure can lead to diminished lung capacity. Additionally, the US EPA reports that repeated short-term exposure to ozone can damage children's developing lungs and lead to reduced lung function into adulthood.
The OzoneWatch
The IQAir Ozone test kit will give you fast, accurate results about the level of ozone in your environment. The kit comes with two test cards (sealed in an air-tight pouch) and an informational ozone brochure, which includes a color chart used to read your results. The test card can be placed or taped anywhere ozone is suspected. You can also choose to pin a test card to your clothing to determine your own level of personal exposure. After one hour, compare the color of the circle on the test card to the OzoneWatch Color Chart. Using this chart, you will be able to determine the level of ozone (measured in ppb (parts per billion)) in your environment. The chart also explains the possible health effects from your level of exposure. The second testing card can be re-sealed in the pouch with tape and used in another location (within 24 hours).
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