Canadian Government Warns Against Use of Ozone Generators

In the wake of increasing scientific evidence that the dangers outweigh any possible benefits of ozone generators for home use, Health Canada has issued a public warning against such use. The April 13, 1999 announcement cites the adverse health effects associated with exposure to ozone, including coughs, chest discomfort, and irritation of the nose and throat. Individuals with asthma and other lung conditions are especially at risk. Health Canada has asked the manufacturers of ozone generators to voluntarily recall those sold for domestic use, according to the agency’s Lisa Wardell.

The published warning states: “A risk evaluation by Health Canada concluded that the direct and purposeful generation of ozone in indoor occupied spaces should be avoided.” The agency does not have the authority to ban sale of ozone generators, but due to concerns expressed by Health Canada, the CSA International decided that, effective November 30, 1998, it will no longer certify ozone generators for home use. CSA had long certified the electrical safety of these devices, and since September of 1997 had also certified that two models from Alpine Industries do not generate unsafe ozone levels. Alpine has been the target of lawsuits by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission for making unsubstantiated claims about their effectiveness (see