What is the Air Quality Index?

We all know good air quality is good and bad air quality is bad. But how can people operating businesses and managing facilities understand air quality levels in and around their working space? In this article, we will explain the US EPA Air Quality Index and cover some common air quality questions.

What is the AQI and how is it measured?
The AQI is a standardized numerical scale published by the US EPA. It measures air quality based on five major pollutants: ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. It ranges from 0 to 500, with higher values indicating greater pollution and health concerns.
What are the different AQI levels and what do they mean?
The AQI is divided into six color-coded categories: Good (0-50), Moderate (51-100), Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (101-150), Unhealthy (151-200), Very Unhealthy (201-300), and Hazardous (301 and higher). Each level has specific health advisories.
How does air pollution affect worker and occupant health?
Air pollution can cause a range of health problems, from short-term irritation like coughing and shortness of breath to long-term diseases like respiratory illnesses and heart disease. Certain populations, such as children, the elderly, and people with respiratory conditions, are more vulnerable.
What is the difference between ambient and indoor air pollution?
Ambient air pollution refers to air quality outside, while indoor air pollution refers to the air quality inside buildings. Both types of air pollution can have significant health impacts. EPA research shows that Americans, on average, spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors, where the concentrations of some pollutants are often 2 to 5 times higher than typical outdoor concentrations.
What are the sources of air pollution in non-residential environments?
Common sources include combustion emissions, emissions from forklifts, trucks, and conveyor belts, manufacturing or construction dust, and wildfires. Indoor air pollution can also be a significant problem, with sources like paint, glues, cleaning products, smoking, and mold.
Indoor air quality can be affected by many factors, including the air exchange rate, outdoor climate, weather conditions, and occupant behavior.
How can I measure air quality?
Polygon offers industrial, construction, and property management clients air quality solutions that include real-time sensors and connected equipment. Our technology is useful for monitoring air quality to understand trends and identify potential issues. Our equipment can be used to control humidity, ventilate, or filter air to improve conditions and mitigate risk.