To protect public health and the environment, the National Environment Protection Measure (NEPM) recommends the measurement of six criteria pollutants to give an indication of ambient air quality.
These six pollutants (ozone, nitrogen dioxide, particulates, sulfur dioxide, lead, and carbon monoxide) have the potential to affect human health as well as the environment.
Routine monitoring
Air quality in ACT is monitored routinely at several sites across Canberra for these pollutants as well as visual distance (which is a surrogate for very small particles). Sulfur dioxide is not measured routinely in Canberra because there is no heavy industry and sulfur containing fuel such as coal is not routinely burnt.
If air quality in Canberra is considered a hazard, eg to asthma sufferers, a health warning will be issued. The warning will remind asthmatics to continue their medication and consult their general practitioner if they have any difficulties. Vigorous exercise should be avoided and if possible individuals should stay inside during the hazard period.
If the measured pollutants indicate a health hazard in the future, a health warning will be issued as a media release.
Contact us
Contact the Health Protection Service on (02) 6205 1700 for further information.
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