With air pollution rising across many indian cities, especially in winter, millions of people have turned to air purifiers in homes and workplaces to improve indoor air quality. But a doctor from the All india Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has now cautioned that not all air purifiers are safe — and some may even be harmful.
⚠️ What Is the AIIMS Warning About?
According to Dr. Himanshu Bhadani, a pediatric specialist at AIIMS, certain types of air purifiers — particularly those that use **ionization or electrical charge technology — can produce ozone gas as a byproduct.
🔹 Ozone is dangerous when inhaled indoors.
Unlike the protective ozone layer high in the atmosphere, ground‑level ozone generated by some air purifier technologies can irritate and damage the lungs, even at low levels.
🔹 Exposure can cause:
· Chest irritation and burning sensations
· Coughing and difficulty breathing
· Worsening of asthma, bronchitis, or COPD
· Potential long‑term lung inflammation
Especially in young children, people with respiratory issues, and those with weakened immunity, ozone exposure can be seriously harmful.
🧪 Why Some air Purifiers Produce Ozone
Air purifiers clean air using different technologies — but not all are equally safe:
🌀 Ozone‑Producing Types
· Ionizers
· Plasma or electrostatic devices
· Some UV‑based models with electrical charge
These technologies can generate ozone (O₃) as a byproduct when charged air molecules react.
🧼 Safer Alternatives
· HEPA (High‑Efficiency Particulate Air) filter purifiers – rely on mechanical filtration and do not produce ozone.
The AIIMS doctor specifically recommends choosing HEPA‑based purifiers instead of ionizers or ozone generators
🧠 What Scientists Say About Ozone Risks
Independent health authorities also advise caution:
· The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns that ozone generators can produce ozone levels 5–10× higher than safe public standards, and that ozone at ground level can irritate airways, worsen asthma, and reduce lung function.
· Public‑health groups like the American lung Association recommend avoiding purifiers that create ozone because the gas itself is a harmful lung irritant.
🏠 How to Use air Purifiers Safely
Here are some practical tips to get the benefits without health risks:
✅ Choose the Right Technology
✔ Prioritize air purifiers with HEPA filters
✔ Avoid models labeled ionizer, ozone generator, or electric charge
✔ read product specs for certifications that confirm zero ozone output
📏 Match Purifier to Room Size
A purifier that’s too small for a room will be less effective and may run continuously, increasing risks.
🛠️ Maintain Filters and Units
· Replace filters at recommended intervals
· Clean units regularly to maintain performance
· Keep vents unobstructed
👨⚕️ High‑Risk Individuals
People with asthma, COPD, young children, or elderly family members should be especially careful — and can consult a doctor before using any device.
🧪 What Experts Say About Effectiveness
It’s also worth noting that air purifiers aren’t a perfect solution:
· A major review of international studies found that many air purifiers — especially those relying on advanced technologies — lack robust human testing for safety and effectiveness. Some devices reduced particles in labs but were not proven to improve health outcomes.
· Some technologies, like ionizers and plasma systems, were specifically found to produce ozone or other harmful byproducts while their real‑world benefits remain uncertain.
🧠 In Summary
While indoor air purifiers can help improve air quality, they are not inherently risk‑free. The AIIMS warning highlights that:
· Some purifiers emit ozone, a lung irritant that can worsen respiratory health.
· HEPA‑based purifiers are generally safer and healthier than ionizing or ozone‑producing models.
· Consumers should choose devices carefully and maintain them properly.
Air purification can be part of a healthy approach to poor outdoor air — but it doesn’t replace proper ventilation, pollution reduction, or medical guidance for vulnerable individuals.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk..jpg)
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