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The general monitoring stations of the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) have recorded a higher than normal pollution level. At 5pm today (September 23), the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) at Yuen Long reached 10+ while two other general stations at Tung Chung and Tuen Mun reached 9 or above. The health risk categories were "Very High" or "Serious".
A dry continental airstream has been affecting the coast of Guangdong today, with sunny periods and light to moderate northerly to northeasterly winds. The intense sunshine enhanced photochemical smog activities and the formation of ozone during the daytime. The ozone is also being accumulated due to light winds, resulting in higher pollution levels.
With an AQHI in the very high range or above, children, the elderly and persons with existing heart or respiratory illnesses are advised to reduce physical exertion and outdoor activities to a minimum or avoid such activities. The general public are advised to reduce, or reduce to a minimum, outdoor physical exertion, and to reduce time outdoors, especially in areas with heavy traffic. As the health effects of air pollutants may vary for individuals, people who are in doubt or who experience discomfort should seek advice from health care professionals. The public may visit the Centre for Health Protection's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk/en/content/9/460/3557.html) for more information on the health effects of air pollution and relevant health advice.
The Education Bureau (EDB) urges all schools to visit the EDB website for appropriate measures to safeguard students' health and to take note of changes in the index. The relevant hyperlink is as follows: www.edb.gov.hk/en/sch-admin/admin/about-activities/sch-activities-guidelines/index.html .
At the "Very High" level, employers of outdoor workers performing heavy manual works are advised to assess the risk of outdoor work and to take appropriate preventive measures to protect the health of their employees, such as reducing outdoor physical exertion and the time of their stay outdoors, especially in areas with heavy traffic. At the "Serious" level, employers of all outdoor workers are advised to assess the risk of outdoor work and take appropriate preventive measures to protect the health of their employees.
Members of the public can check the current AQHI readings at the EPD's website (www.aqhi.gov.hk/en.html) or by calling the hotline 2827 8541.
Ends/Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Issued at HKT 18:18
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