Report Air Pollution: Middlesex County Action Plan

Air pollution in New Jersey has been deemed dangerous to health, with the state receiving failing grades for smog and ozone levels. In Middlesex County, the Air Pollution Program monitors excessive idling in diesel and gasoline-powered vehicles, and fuel-burning equipment such as boilers and heaters is inspected to ensure compliance with the NJDEP Air Pollution Permit. If you want to know how to report air pollution in Middlesex County, there are several online resources that provide real-time air quality information and allow you to report data.

Report air pollution via a phone app

To report air pollution in Middlesex County, you can make use of a phone application. Air Matters is one such app that provides real-time air quality information on your phone for more than 180 countries. It provides information on various pollutants, including O3, PM2.5, CO, NO2, and SO2.

Another app that can be used to monitor air quality is the AirNow app. It provides information on the Air Quality Index (AQI) and particle pollution. It also offers interactive maps, fire and smoke advisories, and information for specific locations.

In addition to these general air quality monitoring apps, there may be other apps specific to Middlesex County or the state of New Jersey that offer more localized information and reporting features. These apps may be available from government or non-government organizations and can provide detailed data and guidelines specific to your region.

It is important to note that while these apps provide valuable information about air quality, they may not always reflect the exact conditions in your specific location. Therefore, combining multiple sources of information, such as government websites, news updates, and personal air quality sensors, can give you a more comprehensive understanding of the air pollution levels in your area.

Report air pollution by buying your own monitor

If you are considering buying an air quality monitor to report air pollution in Middlesex County, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to understand that not all sensors are accurate or durable, and there are currently no widely accepted performance criteria to standardize measurements. Some common issues with air quality monitors include bad apps, connectivity issues, and poor customer service. Therefore, it is recommended to first use an app to check your local air quality, as this may save you from buying an indoor air quality monitor that you may not need. There are several free and ad-free apps available, such as AirNow, that can provide you with local air quality information.

However, if you decide to purchase an air quality monitor, it is important to consider the type of sensors it uses and what pollutants you want to monitor. If you are only interested in monitoring particulate pollution, look for a monitor that provides PM1, PM2.5, and PM10 readings. PM2.5, for example, refers to tiny particles in the air that reduce visibility and cause the air to appear hazy when levels are high. If you are looking for a complete indoor air pollution monitor, a VOC sensor is recommended as VOCs can pose a significant threat indoors. Additionally, a CO2 sensor is useful as it can impact productivity. Some monitors also feature additional sensors for radon and carbon monoxide, but for these pollutants, it is important to ensure the product is certified by relevant authorities as they can be dangerous in both short and long-term exposures.

Some recommended air quality monitors include the Airthings View Plus, which measures seven air-quality factors, including CO2, PM2.5, VOCs, radon, humidity, temperature, and air pressure. It offers both a device display and an app that is easy to set up and sync. Another option is the Forensics Detectors CO2 Monitor, which provides good notifications about pollutant concentrations. If you are looking for a more affordable option, the AirGradient ONE or Qingping Air Quality Monitor offers advanced features at a lower price.

While these monitors can provide valuable information about indoor air quality, it is important to note that they do not give a complete representation and are limited to detecting the contaminants for which they are designed. Additionally, other factors such as personal health status, level of exposure, and other environmental factors play a role in understanding potential health impacts or risks.

Report excessive idling of diesel and gasoline vehicles

The Air Pollution Program in Middlesex County, NJ, monitors excessive idling in diesel and gasoline-powered vehicles. Vehicles are not permitted to idle for more than three consecutive minutes. Idling vehicles contribute to air pollution and negatively impact the environment and public health. Engine exhaust contains harmful pollutants that affect the heart and lungs and can cause more severe health issues, including respiratory problems and lung cancer. Young children and those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions are especially vulnerable to the effects of exhaust.

To report excessive idling of diesel and gasoline vehicles in Middlesex County, you can reach out to the relevant authorities, such as the local department of public safety and health or the environmental health department. They are responsible for enforcing anti-idling regulations and ensuring compliance with air pollution permits. You can also contact the local police department or parking authority, as they may have specific bylaws or ordinances regarding idling vehicles and can respond to complaints.

When reporting, provide as much detailed information as possible, including the vehicle's description (make, model, colour, and licence plate number), the location and duration of the idling, and the date and time of the incident. If possible, you may also want to note any visible emissions or excessive fumes coming from the vehicle. It is helpful to know that idling for more than three minutes is generally prohibited, and some areas have even stricter limits, such as no idling outside schools.

In addition to reporting, you can also take proactive measures to reduce idling in your community. Spread awareness about the harmful effects of idling and encourage people to turn off their engines when parked. Educate vehicle owners and drivers about the environmental and health consequences of idling and provide alternatives, such as parking their vehicles in designated areas away from sensitive locations like schools and hospitals. By working together, we can improve air quality, protect public health, and minimise the impact of vehicle emissions on the environment.

Report non-compliance of dry cleaning facilities

If you wish to report non-compliance of dry cleaning facilities in Middlesex County, there are a number of factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to understand the regulations that dry cleaning facilities are required to comply with. These regulations can vary depending on the location of the facility.

In New York, for example, dry cleaning facilities are regulated by the NYSDEC (New York State Department of Environmental Conservation). NYSDEC requires that most dry-cleaning facilities have a New York State Air Facility Registration. Larger facilities may also need a State or Title V Facility Permit. Additionally, any new facility owner must obtain all necessary permits, registrations, licenses, approvals, and certifications before opening. Perc facilities, in particular, have additional requirements, such as submitting a Notification of Compliance Status form to the DEC and EPA during operational changes or when opening a new facility. Furthermore, annual compliance inspections are mandated, with each perc facility being inspected and each dry cleaning machine tested at least once a year by a Registered Compliance Inspector.

In Florida, the use of perchloroethylene (perc) in dry cleaning facilities is permitted under specific conditions. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection allows these facilities to operate under an Air General Permit (AGP), which outlines the requirements for constructing or operating an air pollutant-emitting facility. On the other hand, dry cleaning facilities in Texas that use perchloroethylene or petroleum-based solvents must comply with the Texas Administrative Code Chapter 115, Subchapter F, Division 4. This includes weekly hydrocarbon dry cleaner leak inspections and maintaining a service and repair log.

When reporting non-compliance, it is essential to provide specific details about the facility in question, including its location, name, and the observed non-compliant behaviour. You can then contact the appropriate regulatory body, such as the NYSDEC in New York, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection in Florida, or the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality in Texas, to file a report. It is recommended to have clear and concise information about the non-compliance, including any relevant dates, times, and specific regulations that are being violated.

Additionally, in Middlesex County, there is a focus on monitoring air pollution from fuel-burning equipment and vehicles. If the non-compliance of a dry cleaning facility involves excessive idling of vehicles or the use of fuel-burning equipment, you can refer to the county's Air Pollution Program for guidance on reporting. This program ensures that vehicles do not idle for more than three consecutive minutes and that fuel-burning equipment complies with the NJDEP Air Pollution Permit.

Report non-compliance of fuel-burning equipment

If you wish to report non-compliance of fuel-burning equipment in Middlesex County, NJ, you can refer to the following information. The county enforces compliance with its bylaws through education and fines.

Fuel-burning equipment, such as boilers, heaters, and emergency generators, that burn natural gas, propane, kerosene, diesel, or #2 fuel oil, is subject to inspection to ensure compliance with the NJDEP Air Pollution Permit. This inspection includes verifying that old equipment was not replaced with new equipment without first obtaining the necessary permit.

Auto body shops are also subject to inspection to ensure they are licensed and complying with regulations regarding paint application rates. If a shop applies paint at a rate greater than the regulated rate, they must provide information on the paint content, spray guns used, and cleaning methods. Additionally, records of waste disposal and handling procedures are verified, and materials must be stored in closed, non-leaking containers.

To report non-compliance, you can contact the Middlesex County Department of Public Safety and Health, specifically the Office of Health Services' Environmental Health division, which oversees the Air Pollution Program. This program monitors excessive idling in diesel and gasoline-powered vehicles, enforcing the rule that vehicles may not idle for more than three consecutive minutes. The program's website provides contact information and details on reporting procedures.

It is important to note that as of June 5, 2023, all open-air burns, except small recreational fires, are prohibited in Middlesex County until further notice. This information can be found on the Municipality websites, along with details on the allowed recreational fires.

Frequently asked questions