If you are in good health the levels of air pollution we usually experience in the UK are unlikely to have any serious short-term effects. But in the rare occasions when air pollution levels are high, some people may feel discomfort and irritation.
People with respiratory conditions are at greater risk, especially if they are elderly. Daily changes in air pollution can trigger increased admissions to hospital and may contribute to the premature death of those who are seriously ill. Those with severe lung diseases or heart conditions might be more sensitive to changes in air pollution.
Long term exposure to air pollution is unlikely to increase the number of people with asthma but people who already suffer from asthma may find their condition adversely affected.
The eight air pollutants identified in the UK national air quality strategy are benzene, 1,3-butadiene, carbon monoxide, lead, nitrogen oxides, ozone, particulates and sulphur dioxide. More information on these eight pollutants is available in the glossary.
Nitrogen dioxide was identified as exceeding guidance levels in Spelthorne and the whole Borough was declared an air quality management area.
Particulates are measured close to the M25 and Heathrow to keep a check on their levels, although they are not expected to exceed the guidelines.
Carbon monoxide, ozone, and sulphur dioxide are monitored by the Highways Agency close to the M25.
Nitrogen dioxide
Can irritate the airways of the lungs, increasing the symptoms of those already suffering from lung diseases. Bacterial infections.
Particulates
Can be carried deep into the lungs where they can cause inflammation and worsen heart and lung diseases
Carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide prevents the normal transport of oxygen by the blood. This can lead to a significant reduction in the supply of oxygen to the heart, particularly in people suffering from heart disease. Can cause death.
Ozone
Irritates the airways of the lungs, increasing the symptoms of those suffering from lung diseases.
Sulphur dioxide
Irritates the airways of the lungs, increasing the symptoms of those suffering from lung diseases.
We monitored Benzene in the Borough between 2003 and 2007 at two locations. This monitoring was stopped as levels measured were well below guidelines.
Pollutants 1,3 butadiene and lead are not monitored in the Borough.
Guideline levels of pollutants monitored by Spelthorne
European obligations based on exposures to residents (not roadside levels):
nitrogen dioxide
.
date to be acheived by
will it be acheived
hourly mean
200 µg/m3 (micrograms per cubic metre) not to be exceeded more than 18 times per year
2010
yes
annual mean
40 µg/m3
2010
no
particulates 10µg
.
date to be acheived by
will it be acheived
daily mean
50 µg/m3 not to be exceeded more than 35 times a year
2005
yes
annual mean
40 µg/m3
2005
yes
particulates 2.5µg
.
date to be acheived by
will it be acheived
annual mean
25 µg/m3
2010
yes
.
Target of 20% reduction in concentrations at urban background
The National Air Quality Archive has an online UK air pollution forecasting service (external link). Select the "south east" region and you will see the pollution forecast for the next 24 hours.
This information can also be accessed from TV teletext page 155 or freephone 0800 556677 - available 24 hours a day.
How to reduce exposure:
When pollutants are high or very high people can:
Avoid vigorous activity, which increases the intake of pollutants into the lungs
Vulnerable individuals should avoid major roads with heavy traffic
Asthmatics who are affected by pollutants can get advice from their GP on increasing their use of medication to prevent and relieve symptoms
