Understanding AQI: How to Stay Safe Amid Rising Air Pollution
Learn about the Air Quality Index (AQI) and which masks to wear to protect yourself from air pollution in New Delhi.
New Delhi, October 23 (Daily Kiran) : As air pollution levels rise, understanding the Air Quality Index (AQI) has become crucial for many. In New Delhi, residents now routinely check their city’s AQI alongside the weather each morning. But what exactly is AQI, and how is it determined?
Simply put, AQI is a scale that indicates how clean or polluted the air in a specific area is. Based on this index, government agencies inform the public about air quality conditions and advise on necessary precautions.
The AQI is calculated using key pollutants present in the air, including PM2.5 (fine particles that can penetrate the lungs), PM10, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and carbon monoxide (CO). The higher the AQI number, the more polluted the air and the greater the potential health risks.
According to international air quality standards, AQI is categorized into six ranges: Good (0-50), Moderate (51-100), Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (101-150), Unhealthy (151-200), Very Unhealthy (201-300), and Hazardous (301 and above). While many pay attention to the higher levels, understanding the first three categories is equally important.
The Good category (0-50) signifies clean air with minimal pollution risk, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. The Moderate range (51-100) indicates acceptable air quality, although sensitive individuals, such as those with asthma, may experience slight discomfort. The Unhealthy category (151-200) raises alarms, especially for vulnerable groups like children and the elderly, who may face breathing difficulties.
As pollution levels rise, many people turn to masks for protection. However, choosing the right type is essential. Masks generally fall into four categories: cloth masks, surgical masks, N95/KN95 masks, and N99/N100 masks. Cloth masks primarily block larger dust particles, while surgical masks are designed to prevent the spread of droplets, mainly used by healthcare professionals.
N95/KN95 masks are respirators capable of filtering out 95% of fine particles, including PM2.5. In contrast, N99/N100 masks offer the highest protection, filtering out over 99% of pollutants.
Health experts advise that not every mask is suitable for every situation. Notably, cloth and surgical masks fail to block harmful PM2.5 particles effectively.
Typically, no mask is needed when the AQI is between 0 and 50. For AQI levels from 51 to 100, masks are unnecessary for most people, but those with allergies or asthma might consider wearing a surgical or cloth mask outdoors. When the AQI reaches 101-150, sensitive groups should wear N95 or KN95 masks outside.
For AQI levels between 151 and 300, everyone should wear an N95 mask when stepping outside. In areas with heavy traffic or pollution, a valveless N95 mask is recommended. An AQI above 301 indicates a health emergency, and individuals should avoid going outside. If necessary, only wear an N99 mask or a well-fitted N95 that seals around the face.
Staying informed about AQI levels and understanding how to protect oneself is vital for health in polluted environments like New Delhi.
