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Air Pollution Information Service

Index and Bands

In the UK most air pollution information services use the index and banding system approved by the Committee on Medical Effects of Air Pollution Episodes (COMEAP). The system uses 1-10 index divided into four bands to provide more detail about air pollution levels in a simple way, similar to the sun index or pollen index.

  • 1-3 (Low)
  • 4-6 (Moderate)
  • 7-9 (High)
  • 10 (Very High)

The overall air pollution index for a site or region is calculated from the highest concentration of five pollutants:

  • Nitrogen Dioxide
  • Sulphur Dioxide
  • Ozone
  • Carbon Monoxide
  • Particles < 10µm (PM10)

Air Pollution Forecasts

Air Quality Forecasts are issued on a regional basis for three different area types:

  • In towns and cities near busy roads
  • Elsewhere in towns and cities
  • In rural areas

Forecasts are based on the prediction of air pollution index for the worst-case of the five pollutants listed above, for each region.

Health Advice

Latest studies report that:

  • When air pollution is LOW (1-3) effects are unlikely to be noticed even by those who are sensitive to air pollution.
  • When air pollution is MODERATE (4-6) sensitive people may notice mild effects but these are unlikely to need action.
  • When air pollution is HIGH (7-9) sensitive people may notice significant effects and may need to take action.
  • When air pollution is VERY HIGH (10) effects on sensitive people, described for HIGH pollution, may worsen.

Air pollution can cause short-term health effects to sensitive individuals (people who suffer from heart disease or lung diseases, including asthma). Effects on sensitive people can be reduced by spending less time outdoors. 'Reliever' inhalers should lessen effects on asthma sufferers.

More details on effects, including long-term, are available in a free leaflet 'Air Pollution - what it means for your health'