Helena Joyce
A Code Orange air pollution watch is a warning that the air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups. It is issued when the Air Quality Index (AQI) climbs above 100. The AQI tracks ozone (smog) and particle pollution, as well as four other widespread air pollutants. When a Code Orange air quality alert is issued, certain groups will want to pay extra attention. Those with underlying health conditions, such as asthma, along with children and older folks, will want to limit their time outside. Even active adults and children should avoid prolonged and strenuous outdoor activities.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Air Quality Index Range | 100-150 |
| Air Quality | Unhealthy for sensitive groups |
| People at Risk | Children, older folks, people with asthma, underlying health conditions, pregnant women |
| Pollutants | Ground-level ozone, particle pollution, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide |
| Action | Limit outdoor time, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, opt for a leisurely walk |
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What You'll Learn
Air Quality Index (AQI)
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a tool that provides information about the health effects of common air pollutants and how to avoid adverse health effects. It is designed to help people understand the impact of air quality on their health and protect themselves from harmful pollutants. The AQI is calculated using the highest of the air quality index values for each pollutant being monitored at a particular location. The AQI typically has six categories of air quality: Good, Satisfactory, Moderately Polluted, Poor, Very Poor, and Severe. Each category is assigned a descriptor, a colour code, and health advice. For example, the "Good" category indicates low health risk, while the "Severe" category represents a very high health risk.
The AQI is dynamic and can change from day to day, reflecting air quality management objectives and the lowest achievable emissions rate. It is influenced by factors such as traffic, forest fires, and the lack of dilution of air pollutants. The AQI also provides health advice for sensitive groups, such as people with respiratory conditions, children, and the elderly, who may be more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution.
In some countries, such as Canada, Malaysia, and Singapore, specific air quality indices have been developed to meet their unique needs. These indices consider a range of pollutants and provide health advice accordingly.
When the AQI reaches the "orange" level, it indicates that the air quality is unhealthy for certain sensitive groups. While the air is generally safe for the majority of the population, those with unique sensitivities should be cautious. At this level, it is recommended to take steps to limit exposure to air pollutants, such as using commercial air filtration units or industrial-level HEPA air filters, which can absorb up to 99.97% of pollutants as small as 0.3 microns in size.
It is important to monitor the AQI and stay informed about air quality reports in your region. By understanding the AQI, individuals can make informed decisions to reduce their exposure to air pollutants and protect their health.
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Ground-level ozone
The concentration of ground-level ozone is typically between 20-30 parts per billion by volume (ppbv), with concentrations reaching close to 100 ppbv in polluted areas. Its concentration increases with height above sea level, with a maximum concentration at the tropopause. While ground-level ozone is less concentrated than stratospheric ozone, it is a concern due to its health effects and contribution to global warming. It is the third most important greenhouse gas after CO2 and CH4.
To reduce exposure to ground-level ozone, individuals can use commercial air filtration units with higher MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) ratings. Filters with MERV ratings of 8-13 are generally sufficient for most HVAC systems. However, in areas with orange or higher air quality index levels, industrial-level HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters may be preferred as they can absorb up to 99.97% of pollutants as small as 0.3 microns. Additionally, opting for biking or walking instead of driving can help limit car exhaust emissions and reduce ground-level ozone emissions.
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Particle pollution
To protect against particle pollution, it is recommended to monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) and take steps to limit exposure when levels are elevated, particularly for sensitive groups. Commercial air filtration units and purifiers can help reduce exposure, with higher-rated filters being more effective at removing particle pollutants. However, it is important to note that these should not be the only line of defence, and other measures such as limiting outdoor activities on days with poor air quality may also be necessary.
Air Quality Alerts, such as Code Orange alerts, are issued by organisations like the New York State Departments of Health and Environmental Conservation (DEC) when particle pollution levels are expected to be unhealthy. These alerts are based on data from particle pollution monitoring stations and weather conditions. By staying informed about these alerts and taking appropriate precautions, individuals can minimise their exposure to harmful particle pollution and protect their health.
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Sensitive groups
An orange alert for air quality indicates that the air pollution levels are between 51 and 100 AQI. While the air is generally safe for the majority of the population, those who are sensitive to air pollution should exercise caution.
The term "sensitive groups" applies to a significant number of people, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. This includes people with respiratory conditions such as asthma, who are particularly vulnerable to pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide.
Additionally, those with or at risk of developing type 2 diabetes are considered a sensitive group, as medical studies show that pollutants impair glucose metabolism and insulin resistance.
Healthy adults who spend a significant amount of time outdoors are also included in the sensitive groups, as their exposure to pollutants is higher than those who spend less time outside.
It is recommended that sensitive groups monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) and take steps to limit their exposure to air pollutants when the AQI reaches the orange level. This may include reducing the amount of time spent outdoors and using commercial air filtration units with higher MERV or HEPA filters to protect against particulate matter and other criteria air pollutants.
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Commercial air filters
An orange air pollution watch is an Air Quality Alert issued when the air quality is deemed to be unhealthy for sensitive groups, such as children and the elderly, who should minimise their exposure to the air. Commercial air filters are an important tool in protecting people's health from exposure to air pollutants. They are rated with the MERV system, which stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. MERV ratings range from 8 to 13 and indicate the size of the particles that the filter can capture, with higher ratings corresponding to smaller, more dangerous particles. For instance, a MERV 13-rated filter can capture particles ranging from 0.3 to 1.0 microns in size, including pollen, fine dust, pet dander, mould spores, smoke, bacteria, and virus-carrying particles.
While commercial air filters can provide protection from harmful pollutants, they should not be relied upon as the sole defence against air pollution. It is also important to monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) and stay informed about air quality reports in your region. This information can guide the steps you take to limit your exposure to air pollutants, such as reducing outdoor activities on days with poor air quality.
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Frequently asked questions
An orange air pollution watch is an alert that is issued when the Air Quality Index (AQI) climbs above 100. This means that the air quality is generally safe for the majority of the population, but those with unique sensitivities to air pollution should be cautious.
AQI stands for Air Quality Index. It is a system used to warn the public when air pollution is dangerous.
The AQI tracks ozone (smog) and particle pollution (tiny particles from smoke, power plants, factories, vehicle exhaust, and other sources), as well as four other widespread air pollutants.
During an orange air pollution watch, those with underlying health conditions, such as asthma, children, older folks, and pregnant people should limit their time outside. Even active adults and children should avoid prolonged and strenuous outdoor activities.
