Evaluation of Ozone Exposure from Use of the Electrostatic Detection Apparatus

Use of the Electrostatic Detection Apparatus in evaluating documents for hidden indentations creates ozone. Ozone can cause respiratory irritation and breathing difficulty. Ozone discharge was measured for an hour during continuous operation at two different locations. Results indicated that continuous use can generate ozone concentrations that will exceed the permissible exposure limit mandated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Ozone levels can be controlled by shutting the corona wand off when not in use and by using local exhaust ventilation.