Air pollution - Ozone (8-hr.)
Current Value
0.064ppm
Definition
EPA Air Quality Standards:
Ozone: 0.070 ppm (8-hour)
Why Is This Important?
Ozone in the air we breathe can harm our health. People most at risk from breathing air containing ozone include people with asthma, children, older adults, and people who are active outdoors, especially outdoor workers. In addition, people with certain genetic characteristics, and people with reduced intake of certain nutrients, such as vitamins C and E, are at greater risk from ozone exposure.
Breathing ozone can trigger a variety of health problems including chest pain, coughing, throat irritation, and airway inflammation. It also can reduce lung function and harm lung tissue. Ozone can worsen bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma, leading to increased medical care.
Story Behind the Curve
EPA primary and secondary ozone standard levels are 0.070 parts per million (ppm) (fourth-highest daily maximum, averaged across three consecutive years) and averaging times (eight hours). Ozone levels in Licking County are below the EPA standard and have been declining since 2016.
What We Do
LCHD communicates air quality alerts through its social media sites.
Partnerships
Mid Ohio Regional Planning (MORPC) https://www.morpc.org/program-service/air-quality-program/