The present paper extrapolates quantitative data for ozone virucidal activity on the basis of the available scientific literature data for a safe and effective use of ozone in the appropriate cases and to explore the safety measures developed under the stimulus of the current emergency situation. Ozone is a powerful oxidant reacting with organic molecules, and therefore has bactericidal, virucidal, and fungicidal actions. At the same time, it is a toxic substance, having adverse effects on health and safety. Its use is being proposed for the disinfection of workplaces’ and public places’ atmosphere, and for disposable masks and personal protective equipment disinfection for reuse, with particular reference to the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. Ozone can be generated in situ by means of small, compact ozone generators, using dried ambient air as a precursor. It should be injected into the room that is to be disinfected until the desired ozone concentration is reached; after the time needed for the disinfection, its concentrations must be reduced to the levels required for the workers’ safety. The optimal use of ozone is for air and surface disinfection without human presence, using a concentration that is effective for the destruction of viruses, but not high enough to deteriorate materials.

The aim of this work was the study, by a multiparametric approach, of emissions from a laser printer in an experimental box-chamber, with particular attention to nanoparticles release. The experimental design included number concentration measurements by Fast Mobility Particle Sizer (FMPS) and chemical characterizations (elements) of size segregated samples collected by Nanomoudi cascade impactor. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) were also sampled by charcoal sorbent tubes by personal sampling pumps. Monitoring of ozone, total volatile organic compounds concentrations and of temperature and humidity values inside the experimental box during the printing processes were also performed by automatic analyzers. The performed monitoring allowed to evidence different ways for particles emissions by laser printers, in particular showing that nanoparticles, characterised by high concentrations of Ba, Zn, B, K, Sr and Na, are set free at the beginning of the printing process. This emission seems to be directly ascribable to the use of toner powder, as all these elements are present in it. The emission of larger particles (ca. 100–320 nm) was observed in subsequent phases of the print process, probably due to the condensation of vapours released during the progressive heating of the fuser roller. This contribution was proved by both the FMPS measurements and the cascade impactor results. Also, a low emission of particles in higher size ranges was evidenced, mainly due to paper related particles. A very high concentration of VOCs was detected inside the chamber and the chemical speciation shows that the major contribution is associated to toner components, even if some species are released from other printer components. Although the formation of secondary species by reaction of VOCs with ozone cannot be excluded, these species were present inside the chamber at concentrations lower than the detection limit.

Background: Developmental toxicity is defined as adverse effects induced either during pregnancy or as a result of parental exposure. While considerable attention has been devoted to maternal exposure to such chemicals, the role of paternal exposure has often been regarded as less significant. Objective: This study aims to highlight the impact of male-mediated developmental toxicity. Methods: An online search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar to identify studies focusing on developmental toxicity in offspring associated with paternal exposure during the preconception period. Results: The scientific literature—ranging from studies on pharmaceutical use to substances of abuse (notably tobacco, alcohol, opioids, and cannabinoids), as well as occupational and environmental exposure to specific compounds (e.g., phthalates, certain organic solvents, pesticides)—indicates that paternal exposure to developmental toxicants can adversely affect offspring health through various biochemical mechanisms. Conclusions: There is substantial experimental evidence of male-mediated developmental toxicity for various chemicals, demonstrating a particular vulnerability of the male germ line to transmissible effects. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain the biochemical pathways underlying this toxicity. Evidence in humans is more challenging to interpret; however, numerous findings—both concerning substances of abuse and occupational exposures—raise concerns regarding the potential developmental risks to offspring.