WorkSafe warns workplaces about the dangers of ozone exposure

WorkSafe has recently issued a reminder to workplaces to manage risks related to the use of ozone generating machines following incidents where two workers experienced negative health effects due to ozone exposure in a laundry facility at an aged care center.

WorkSafe said workers in the laundry detected a bleach-like scent, unaware it was ozone, and informed maintenance about the odour.

Several days later, maintenance personnel visited the laundry and discovered that one of the ozone generators had malfunctioned, resulting in ozone leakage into the washing machines. They were instructed to restart the generator.

The smell became increasingly potent, and workers were instructed to clean the washing machines.

Two workers were affected by the ozone gas and experienced negative health issues such as a sore throat and dizziness. A number of other staff members, including contractors, were likewise exposed to ozone.

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