Description of events:
Over the weekend, some athletes practicing at the facility experienced symptoms of cough and chest tightness. Some sought medical attention and were treated and released. As a precautionary measure, the facility was closed until the cause of the symptoms could be determined. A Game enlisted the assistance of the Center for Toxicology and Environmental Health (CTEH), a firm that specializes in air quality and public health to help investigate the cause of the symptoms and ensure that the air quality is safe for those who use the facility.
At the current time, the air quality investigation indicates that nitrogen oxide gases resulting from the exhaust of the white Zamboni machine used at the facility are most likely the cause of the athletes’ symptoms. Air monitoring results indicated elevated levels of nitrogen oxides during the operation of this machine. This Zamboni has been taken out of service. Air monitoring data indicates that the remaining red Zamboni does not produce elevated levels of nitrogen oxides when in operation. The facility has been thoroughly ventilated and nitrogen oxide gases are no longer detectable within the facility. Based on the lack of detectable nitrogen oxide gases, the facility has been re-opened and continued monitoring will occur.
What are nitrogen oxides?
Nitrogen oxides are a combination of nitrogen and oxygen gas, can be produced by combustion, and are common components of internal combustion engine exhaust. Nitrogen dioxide and nitric oxide are two of the most common nitrogen oxides. Both gases are nonflammable and can have a colorless or a reddish-brown appearance. Nitrogen dioxide has a pungent, acrid odor, while nitric oxide has a sharp, sweet- smelling odor. Nitrogen oxides are heavier than air and will remain close to the ground. Nitrogen dioxide is the primary nitrogen oxide associated with Zamboni exhaust.
How is a person exposed to nitrogen dioxide and nitrogen oxide?
Nitrogen oxides are present in low levels throughout our environment. The sources of these low levels of nitrogen oxides are from a variety of combustion processes including smoking, vehicle exhaust, welding operations, and burning of coal, oil, or natural gas. Nitrogen oxides occur naturally as part of nitrogen biogeochemical cycle and are present in the air and soil. Nitrogen oxides are also released in thermal power generating plant exhaust. Indoor sources include fireplaces, gas stoves, and unvented heaters. Poor indoor ventilation can contribute to increased levels of nitrogen oxides.
What are the potential health effects of nitrogen dioxide and nitrogen oxide?
Nitrogen oxides can cause irritation and/or a burning sensation of the nose, throat, eyes, and respiratory tract. Low–level exposure can cause reactivity in some asthmatics, and prolonged or higher level exposure can cause symptoms of coughing and/or shortness of breath. Inhalation of higher levels of nitrogen oxides can lead to the development of acute or chronic bronchitis.
Should I be concerned about returning to the facility?
No, the indoor air quality at this skating rink has been monitored and determined to be safe. The facility has been well ventilated and there are no detectable concentrations of nitrogen dioxide present within the facility. The Zamboni that was determined to be the source of the elevated nitrogen dioxide has been removed from service.
Are there any future health risks associated with nitrogen dioxide and nitrogen oxide?
The effects of nitrogen oxide exposure may occur immediately upon exposure or within the next two days after exposure. Symptoms should improve after the exposure source has been removed. Nitrogen oxides are not persistent in the body, and do not cause cancer. In the absence of a severe exposure, long‐term health effects are not expected.
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