Table 4.2 - WHO air quality guidelines for relevant pollutants and expected effect concentrations
Pollution type | Indicator | AQG (µg/m3) | Averaging time | Effect level | Effects |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Short term effects | |||||
Summer smog | O3 | 150200 | 1 hour | 200 µg/m3; classification: mild | Lung function decrements, respiratory symptoms, inflammation |
Winter smog | SO2 + PM1 | 125 + 125 | 1 day | 400 µg/m3; classification: moderate | Decreased lung function; increased medicine use for susceptible children |
Urban/traffic | NO2 | 150 | 1 day | | |
Long term effects | |||||
Traffic/industry | Lead | 0.51.0 | 1 year | | Effects on blood formation, kidney damage; neurologic, cognitive effects |
Combustion | SO2 + PM1 | 50 + 50 | 1 year |   | Respiratory symptoms, chronic respiratory illness |
Note: