Made | 13th August 2003 | ||
Laid before Parliament | 14th August 2003 | ||
Coming into force | 9th September 2003 |
Designation of competent authority
3.
The Secretary of State is designated as the competent authority for the purposes of article 3 (implementation and responsibilities) of Council Directive 96/62/EC on ambient air quality assessment and management[3].
Duty to ensure compliance with limit values
4.
- (1) The Secretary of State shall take the measures necessary to ensure that throughout England, in each zone, concentrations of relevant pollutants in ambient air, as assessed in accordance with regulations 6 to 9, do not exceed the limit values set out in Schedule 1 from the dates specified in that Schedule.
(2) The measures taken shall -
Target values and long-term objectives for ozone
5.
- (1) The definitions and provisions on interpretation in Part I of Schedule 2 shall apply in the interpretation of the other parts of that Schedule.
(2) The target values for ozone concentrations in ambient air are set out in Part II of Schedule 2.
(3) The long-term objectives for ozone concentrations in ambient air are set out in Part III of Schedule 2.
Assessment of ambient air quality
6.
The Secretary of State shall ensure that ambient air quality is assessed in each zone in relation to each of the relevant pollutants, ozone and ozone precursor substances in accordance with regulations 7 to 9.
Classification of zones
7.
- (1) The Secretary of State shall, in accordance with paragraphs (3), (4) and (7), classify each zone in relation to each of the relevant pollutants according to whether ambient air quality in that zone for that pollutant is required to be assessed by -
(2) The Secretary of State shall, in accordance with paragraphs (5) and (6), classify each zone in relation to ozone according to whether ambient air quality for ozone is required to be assessed by -
(3) Measurements must be used to assess ambient air quality in relation to a relevant pollutant in a zone if -
(4) A combination of measurements and modelling techniques may be used to assess ambient air quality in any zone in relation to a relevant pollutant where the levels of that pollutant over a representative period are below the relevant upper assessment threshold.
(5) Fixed continuous measurement must be used to assess ambient air quality in relation to ozone if within the last five years concentrations of ozone in that zone have exceeded a long-term objective.
(6) A combination of measurement campaigns of short duration and results from emissions inventories and modelling may be used to assess ambient air quality in relation to ozone in a zone if fewer than five years' data are available to determine exceedances.
(7) Where the levels of a relevant pollutant in any zone over a representative period are below the relevant lower assessment threshold, the sole use of modelling or objective estimation techniques for assessing levels of that pollutant is permissible unless -
(8) The upper and lower assessment thresholds for the relevant pollutants are set out in Part I of Schedule 3.
(9) Where a zone is classified in relation to a pollutant under paragraph (1)(a), modelling techniques may be used for supplementing the measurements taken in order to provide an adequate level of information on ambient air quality in relation to a relevant pollutant in the zone.
(10) The Secretary of State may also designate a zone classified under this regulation in relation to a relevant pollutant as follows.
(11) Where the relevant pollutant is sulphur dioxide, the zone may be designated under this paragraph if the limit value is exceeded in the zone owing to concentrations of sulphur dioxide in ambient air due to natural sources.
(12) Where the relevant pollutant is PM10, the zone may be designated -
Review of classifications
8.
- (1) The Secretary of State shall review the classification of each zone under regulation 7 at least once in every five years in accordance with Part II of Schedule 3.
(2) The Secretary of State shall also review the classification of any zone under regulation 7 in the event of significant changes in activities affecting ambient concentrations in that zone of any of the relevant pollutants.
Method of assessment of ambient air quality
9.
- (1) The Secretary of State shall ensure that ambient air quality is assessed in each zone by following the appropriate method for each relevant pollutant and for ozone in accordance with its current classification.
(2) Where a zone is classified under regulation 7(1)(a) or (b) in relation to a relevant pollutant -
(3) Schedule 4 shall have effect for the purposes of determining the location of sampling points for the relevant pollutants.
(4) For each zone classified under regulation 7(1)(a) in relation to a relevant pollutant, the Secretary of State shall ensure that the minimum number of fixed sampling points determined in accordance with Schedule 5 is used for sampling the concentrations of that pollutant in that zone.
(5) For each zone classified under regulation 7(1)(b) in relation to a relevant pollutant, the Secretary of State shall ensure that the number of fixed sampling points used for sampling that pollutant in that zone, and the spatial resolution of other techniques, shall be sufficient for the concentrations of that pollutant to be established in accordance with Part I of Schedule 4 and Part I of Schedule 7.
(6) For each zone classified under regulation 7(2)(a) in relation to ozone, the Secretary of State shall ensure that the minimum number of fixed sampling points determined in accordance with Part III of Schedule 5 is used for sampling the concentrations of ozone in that zone.
(7) For zones to which paragraph (6) applies, the Secretary of State shall ensure that measurements of nitrogen dioxide are made at a minimum of 50 per cent. of the ozone sampling points required by Part III of Schedule 5.
(8) The measurements of nitrogen dioxide required by paragraph (7) shall be continuous, except at rural background stations, where other measurement methods may be used.
(9) For zones within which information from sampling points for fixed measurement is supplemented by information from modelling or indicative measurement, the number of fixed sampling points required by Part III of Schedule 5 may be reduced, provided that -
(10) The results of modelling and indicative measurements carried out in zones to which paragraph (9) applies shall be taken into account for the assessment of air quality with respect to target values.
(11) For zones where five years of measurement have been carried out and, during each of the previous five years of measurement, concentrations are below the long-term objectives, the number of continuous measurement stations shall be determined in accordance with Part IV of Schedule 5.
(12) Part II of Schedule 4 shall have effect for determining the classification and location of sampling points for the measurement of ozone.
(13) Reference methods for -
are set out in Schedule 8 and these methods must be used unless other methods are used which the Secretary of State considers can be demonstrated to give equivalent results.
(14) The Secretary of State shall ensure that -
(15) For ozone precursor substances, the Secretary of State shall ensure that -
(16) For zones which are classified under regulation 7(1)(b) or (c), the Secretary of State shall ensure that the information set out in Part II of Schedule 7 is compiled.
(17) For sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, oxides of nitrogen, benzene, carbon monoxide and ozone measurements of volume must be standardised at a temperature of 293K and a pressure of 101,3 kPa.
Action plans
10.
- (1) The Secretary of State shall draw up action plans indicating the measures to be taken in the short term where there is any risk of the limit values for any of the relevant pollutants, or the alert thresholds for sulphur dioxide or nitrogen dioxide, being exceeded, in order to reduce that risk and to limit the duration of such an occurrence.
(2) The alert threshold for sulphur dioxide is set out in paragraph 1.2 of Part I of Schedule 1 and the alert threshold for nitrogen dioxide is set out in paragraph 1.2 of Part II of Schedule 1.
(3) The information threshold and alert threshold for ozone are set out in paragraph 1.1 of Part VII of Schedule 1.
(4) The Secretary of State shall draw up action plans indicating the measures to be taken in the short term where there is any risk of the alert threshold for ozone being exceeded if there is in her opinion significant potential to -
(5) In making the assessment required by paragraph (4), the Secretary of State shall take account of national geographical, meteorological and economic conditions.
(6) The Secretary of State shall make available to the public -
Action to be taken where limit values are exceeded
11.
- (1) The Secretary of State shall draw up a list of zones in which the levels of one or more of the relevant pollutants are higher than -
(2) The Secretary of State shall draw up a list of zones in which the levels of one or more of the relevant pollutants are between the limit value and the limit value plus any margin of tolerance.
(3) Subject to paragraphs (6), (8) and (9), the Secretary of State shall draw up for each zone listed under paragraph (1) a plan or programme for attaining the limit values for the pollutants in question within the time limits specified in Schedule 1 and shall ensure that the plan or programme is implemented.
(4) The plan or programme shall at least include the information listed in Schedule 9.
(5) Where in any zone the level of more than one pollutant is higher than the limit value, an integrated plan covering all the pollutants in question shall be prepared.
(6) For any zone designated under regulation 7(11), the Secretary of State may determine that plans or programmes shall be required under this regulation only where the limit values are exceeded owing to man-made emissions.
(7) Plans or programmes for PM10 which are prepared in accordance with this regulation shall also have the aim of reducing concentrations of PM2.5.
(8) For any zone designated under regulation 7(12)(a), the Secretary of State may determine that plans or programmes shall be required only where the limit values are exceeded owing to causes other than natural events.
(9) For any zone designated under regulation 7(12)(b), the Secretary of State may determine that plans or programmes shall be required only where the limit values are exceeded owing to PM10 levels other than those caused by winter road sanding.
Programmes and measures to address ozone levels
12.
- (1) The Secretary of State shall draw up three lists of zones, namely zones in which -
(2) The Secretary of State shall draw up and implement for each zone listed under paragraph (1)(a) a plan or programme for attaining the target values from the date specified in Part II of Schedule 2.
(3) The obligation in paragraph (2) will not apply if the Secretary of State considers that attaining the target values would not be achievable through proportionate measures.
(4) The Secretary of State shall, in drawing up and implementing plans or programmes under paragraph (2) ensure that, where appropriate, these are integrated with plans drawn up under regulation 10.
(5) Plans or programmes drawn up under paragraph (2) shall contain at least the information specified in Schedule 9, and shall be made available to the public.
(6) The Secretary of State shall prepare and implement for each zone listed under paragraph (1)(b) measures which she considers to be cost-effective with the aim of achieving the long-term objectives.
(7) The Secretary of State shall ensure that the measures described in paragraph (6) are, at least, consistent with the plans or programmes drawn up under paragraph (2).
(8) The Secretary of State shall, for zones to which paragraph (1)(c) applies -
Consultations with other Member States of the European Union
13.
- (1) For the purpose of this regulation, a transboundary pollution issue arises when -
(2) It shall be the duty of the relevant administration to notify the Secretary of State of any transboundary pollution issue affecting Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland as applicable.
(3) The Secretary of State shall consult any other Member State directly concerned with a view to finding a solution -
(4) In the case of a transboundary pollution issue to which paragraph (1)(b) or (c) applies, where the Secretary of State considers that attaining the target values or long-term objectives in the United Kingdom or the Member State concerned, as the case may be, is reasonably achievable through proportionate measures, she shall take the action prescribed in paragraph (5).
(5) Where paragraph (4) applies, the Secretary of State shall, in consultation with any relevant administration directly concerned, ensure co-operation with the Member State concerned in drawing up joint plans or programmes in order to attain the target values or long-term objectives in the United Kingdom or the other Member State as the case may be.
(6) The Secretary of State shall ensure that where paragraph (4) applies, action plans prepared under regulation 10(4) for England cover neighbouring zones affected in both the United Kingdom and any other Member State concerned, and shall take such steps as she considers appropriate to ensure that action plans prepared by any relevant administration under any equivalent provision cover such neighbouring zones.
(7) The Secretary of State shall ensure that where paragraph (6) applies, any other Member State concerned is provided with the information specified in regulation 10(6).
(8) The Secretary of State shall ensure that where ozone concentrations exceed the information threshold or alert threshold in any zone close to the borders with another Member State, full information of this occurrence is provided promptly to the competent authorities of the other Member State concerned, in order to facilitate the provision of information to the public in that Member State.
(9) In discharging her obligations under this regulation, the Secretary of State shall, where appropriate, seek to ensure full co-operation with any other countries concerned, not being Member States.
(10) In any case which appears to her to affect Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, the Secretary of State shall -
(11) The European Commission may be present at any consultations conducted under paragraph (3) which concern relevant pollutants.
(12) In this regulation, "relevant administration" means -
Extension of power to give directions relating to air quality
14.
- (1) For the purposes of the implementation of any obligations of the United Kingdom under Council Directive 96/62/EC on ambient air quality assessment and management[4], Council Directive 99/30/EC relating to limit values for sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and oxides of nitrogen, particulate matter and lead in ambient air[5] and of European Parliament and Council Directive 2000/69/EC relating to the limit values for benzene and carbon monoxide in ambient air[6] -
as the Secretary of State has under section 85(5) of the Environment Act 1995[7] in relation to local authorities in England outside Greater London.
(2) The provisions of subsections (6), (6A) and (7) of section 85 of the Environment Act 1995 shall apply to directions given under this regulation as they apply to directions given under that section, and in the case of subsections (6) and (7) as if the Mayor of London were a local authority.
Zones where the levels are lower than the limit value
15.
- (1) The Secretary of State shall draw up a list of zones in which the levels of the relevant pollutants are below the limit values.
(2) The Secretary of State shall ensure that the levels of the relevant pollutants in these zones are maintained below the limit values and shall endeavour to preserve the best ambient air quality compatible with sustainable development.
Public information
16.
- (1) The Secretary of State shall ensure that up-to-date information on ambient concentrations of each of the relevant pollutants and of ozone is routinely made available to the public in accordance with the following paragraphs.
(2) Information on ambient concentrations of sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter shall be updated -
(3) Information on ambient concentrations of lead shall be updated on a three-monthly basis.
(4) Information on ambient concentrations of benzene, as an average value over the last 12 months, shall be updated -
(5) Information on ambient concentrations of carbon monoxide, as a maximum running average over eight hours, shall be updated -
(6) The information on concentrations of ozone shall be updated -
(7) Information made available with respect to each of the relevant pollutants shall include -
(8) Information with respect to ozone made available shall include -
for the relevant averaging period; and
(b) a short assessment of those exceedances and their effects on health;
(c) comprehensive annual reports; and
(d) timely information about actual or predicted exceedances of the alert threshold.
(9) The annual reports referred to in paragraph (8)(c) shall, at least, contain -
(10) The information referred to in paragraph (9)(b) may include, where appropriate -
(11) Information and reports required to be made available by this regulation shall be published by appropriate means including, as appropriate, broadcast media, press, publications, information screens, the internet or other computer network services.
(12) The Secretary of State shall ensure that where information is provided to the public under paragraphs (7) and (13) -
(13) When an alert threshold for sulphur dioxide or nitrogen dioxide is exceeded, the Secretary of State shall ensure that the necessary steps are taken to inform the public, and the information made available shall as a minimum include the information specified in paragraphs 1.3 of Part I and 1.3 of Part II, as applicable, of Schedule 1.
(14) Information to be made available to the public under this regulation shall include the map mentioned in the definition of "zone" in regulation 2 and action plans, plans and programmes prepared under regulations 10 and 11 respectively.
(15) For the purposes of this regulation, the public includes, but is not limited to, health care bodies and organisations having an interest in ambient air quality and representing the interests of sensitive populations, consumers and the environment.
(16) Information made available under this regulation shall be clear, comprehensible and accessible.
Revocations and transitional provisions
17.
- (1) The instruments referred to in Schedule 10 are revoked in accordance with that schedule.
(2) Until 1st January 2005, if the methods prescribed by these regulations for the assessment of suspended particulate matter are used for the purpose of demonstrating compliance with Annex IV of Directive 80/779/EEC of 15th July 1980 on air quality limit values and guide values for suspended particulates[8], the data so collected shall be multiplied by a factor of 1.2.
Information requirements
18.
- (1) The Secretary of State shall ensure that the information specified in Part I of Schedule 11 is obtained and collated.
(2) The criteria for aggregating data and calculating statistical parameters specified in Part II of Schedule 11 shall apply.
Elliot Morley
Minister of State, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
13th August 2003
Averaging period | Limit value | Margin of tolerance[9] | Date by which limit value is to be met | |
1.
Hourly limit value for the protection of human health |
1 hour | 350 µg/m3, not to be exceeded more than 24 times a calendar year | 60 µg/m3, reducing to 30 µg/m3 on 1st January 2004 and to 0 µg/m3 on 1st January 2005 | 1st January 2005 |
2.
Daily limit value for the protection of human health |
24 hours | 125 µg/m3, not to be exceeded more than 3 times a calendar year | None | 1st January 2005 |
3.
Limit value for the protection of ecosystems |
Calendar year and winter (1st October to 31st March) | 20 µg/m3 | None | 19th July 2001 |
- changes in concentration (improvement, stabilisation, or deterioration), together with the reasons for those changes,
- the geographical area concerned, and
- the duration of the occurrence;
- the type of population potentially sensitive to the occurrence;
- the precautions to be taken by the sensitive population concerned.
Averaging period | Limit value | Margin of tolerance | Date by which limit value is to be met | |
1.
Hourly limit value for the protection of human health |
1 hour | 200 µg/m3 NO2, not to be exceeded more than 18 times a calendar year | 70 µg/m3, reducing on 1st January 2004 and on 1st January of each following year by equal annual amounts to reach 0 µg/m3by 1st January 2010 | 1st January 2010 |
2.
Annual limit value for the protection of human health |
Calendar year | 40 µg/m3 NO2 | 14 µg/m3, reducing on 1st January 2004 and on 1st January of each following year by equal annual amounts to reach 0 µg/m3 by 1st January 2010 | 1st January 2010 |
3.
Annual limit value for the protection of vegetation |
Calendar year | 30 µg/m3 NOx | None | 19th July 2001 |
Averaging period | Limit value | Margin of tolerance | Date by which limit value is to be met | |
1.
24-hour limit value for the protection of human health |
24 hours | 50 µg/m3 PM10, not to be exceeded more than 35 times a calendar year | 10 µg/m3, reducing on 1st January 2004 and on 1st January of each following year by equal annual amounts to reach 0 µg/m3 by 1st January 2005 | 1st January 2005 |
2.
Annual limit value for the protection of human health |
Calendar year | 40 µg/m3 PM10 | 3.2 µg/m3, reducing on 1st January 2004 to 1.6 µg/m3 and on 1st January 2005 to 0 µg/m3 | 1st January 2005 |
Averaging period | Limit value | Margin of tolerance | Date by which limit value is to be met | |
Annual limit value for the protection of human health | Calendar year | 0.5 µg/m3 | 0.2 µg/m3, reducing on 1st January 2004 to 0.1 µg/m3 and on 1st January 2005 to 0 µg/m3 | 1st January 2005 |
Averaging period | Limit value | Margin of tolerance | Date by which limit value is to be met | |
Limit value for the protection of human health | Calendar year | 5 µg/m3 | 5 µg/m3 reducing on 1st January 2006 and every 12 months thereafter by 1 µg/m3 to reach 0 µg/m3 by 1st January 2010 | 1st January 2010 |
Averaging period | Limit value | Margin of Tolerance | Date by which limit value is to be met | |
Limit value for the protection of human health | Maximum daily 8-hour mean | 10mg/m3 | 4 mg/m3 reducing on 1st January 2004 to 2 mg/m3, and to 0 mg/m3 on 1st January 2005 | 1st January 2005 |
Parameter | Threshold | |
Information threshold | 1 hour average | 180 µg/m3 |
Alert threshold | 1 hour average (a) | 240 µg/m3 |
1.2
Minimum details to be supplied to the public when the information or alert threshold is exceeded or exceedance is predicted
Details to be supplied to the public on a sufficiently large scale as soon as possible should include -
1.
Information on any observed exceedance:
2.
Forecast for the following afternoon, day or days -
3.
Information on the type of population concerned, possible health effects and recommended conduct -
4.
Information provided under this Schedule shall also include -
Parameter | Target value for 2010(a) | |
1.
Target value for the protection of human health |
Maximum daily 8-hour mean(b) | 120 µg/m3 not to be exceeded on more than 25 days per calendar year averaged over three years(c) |
2.
Target value for the protection of human health |
AOT 40, calculated from 1 h values from May to July | 18,000 µg/m3.h averaged over five years(c) |
Parameter | Long-term objective | |
1.
Long-term objective for the protection of human health |
Maximum daily 8-hour mean within a calendar year | 120 µg/m3 |
2.
Long-term objective for the protection of vegetation |
AOT40, calculated from 1 h values from May to July | 6,000 µg/m3.h |
Health protection | Ecosystem protection | |
Upper assessment threshold | 60% of 24-hour limit value (75 µg/m3), not to be exceeded more than 3 times in any calendar year | 60% of winter limit value (12 µg/m3) |
Lower assessment threshold | 40% of 24-hour limit value (50 µg/m3), not to be exceeded more than 3 times in any calendar year | 40% of winter limit value (8 µg/m3) |
Hourly limit value for the protection of human health (NO2) | Annual limit value for the protection of human health (NO2) | Annual limit value for the protection of vegetation (NOx) | |
Upper assessment threshold | 70% of limit value (140 µg/m3), not to be exceeded more than 18 times in any calendar year | 80% of limit value (32 µg/m3) | 80% of limit value (24 µg/m3) |
Lower assessment threshold | 50% of limit value (100 µg/m3), not to be exceeded more than 18 times in any calendar year | 65% of limit value (26 µg/m3) | 65% of limit value (19.5 µg/m3) |
24-hour average | Annual average | |
Upper assessment threshold | 60% of limit value (30 µg/m3), not to be exceeded more than seven times in any calendar year | 70% of limit value (14 µg/m3) |
Lower assessment threshold | 40% of limit value (20 µg/m3), not to be exceeded more than seven times in any calendar year | 50% of limit value (10 µg/m3) |
Annual average | |
Upper assessment threshold | 70% of limit value (0.35 µg/m3) |
Lower assessment threshold | 50% of limit value (0.25 µg/m3) |
Annual Average | |
Upper assessment threshold | 70% of limit value (3.5 µg/m3) |
Lower assessment threshold | 40% of limit value (2 µg/m3) |
Eight-hour average | |
Upper assessment threshold | 70% of limit value (7mg/m3) |
Lower assessment threshold | 50% of limit value (5mg/m3) |
Sampling points should in general be sited to avoid measuring very small micro-environments in their immediate vicinity. As a guideline, a sampling point should be sited to be representative of air quality in a surrounding area of no less than 200 m2 at traffic-orientated sites and of several square kilometres at urban-background sites.
Sampling points should also, where possible, be representative of similar locations not in their immediate vicinity.
Account should be taken of the need to locate sampling points on islands, where that is necessary for the protection of human health.
(b)
Protection of ecosystems and vegetation
Sampling points targeted at the protection of ecosystems or vegetation should be sited more than 20 km from agglomerations or more than 5 km from other built-up areas, industrial installations or motorways. As a guideline, a sampling point should be sited to be representative of air quality in a surrounding area of at least 1000 km2. A sampling point may be sited at a lesser distance or to be representative of air quality in a less extended area, taking account of geographical conditions.
Account should be taken of the need to assess air quality on islands.
Type of station | Objective of measurement | Representativeness (a) | Macroscale siting criteria |
Urban | Protection of human health: To assess the exposure of the urban population to ozone, i.e. where the population density and ozone concentration are relatively high and representative of the exposure of the general population | A few km2 |
Away from the influence of local emissions such as traffic, petrol stations etc.;Vented locations where well mixed levels can be measured; Locations such as residential and commercial areas of cities, parks (away from the trees), big streets or squares with very little or no traffic, open areas characteristic of education, sports or recreation facilities |
Suburban |
Protection of human health and vegetation:To assess the exposure of the population and vegetation located in the outskirts of the agglomeration, where the highest ozone levels, to which the population and vegetation is likely to be directly or indirectly exposed, occur |
Some tens of km2 |
At a certain distance from the area of maximum emissions, downwind following the main wind direction during conditions favourable to ozone formation;Where population, sensitive crops or natural ecosystems located in the outer fringe of an agglomeration are exposed to high ozone levels; Where appropriate, some suburban stations also upwind of the area of maximum emissions, in order to determine the regional background levels of ozone. |
Rural |
Protection of human health and vegetation:To assess the exposure of population, crops and natural ecosystems to sub-regional scale ozone concentrations |
Sub-regional levels (a few km2) |
Stations can be located in small settlements and/or areas with natural ecosystems, forests or crops;Representative for ozone away from the influence of immediate local emissions such as industrial installations and roads; At open area sites, but not on higher mountain-tops. |
Rural background |
Protection of vegetation and human health:To assess the exposure of crops and natural ecosystems to regional-scale ozone concentrations as well as exposure of the populations |
Regional/national/continental levels (1,000 to 10,000 km2) |
Station located in areas with lower population density, e.g. with natural ecosystems, forests, far removed from urban and industrial areas and away from local emissions;Avoid locations which are subject to locally enhanced formation of near-ground inversion conditions, also summits of higher mountains; Coastal sites with pronounced diurnal wind cycles of local character are not recommended. |
Population of zone (thousands ) | If concentrations exceed the upper assessment threshold | If maximum concentrations are between the upper and lower assessment thresholds | For SO2 and NO2 in agglomerations where maximum concentrations are below the lower assessment thresholds |
0-250 | 1 | 1 | not applicable |
250-499 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
500-749 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
750-999 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
1,000-1,499 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
1,500-1,999 | 5 | 2 | 1 |
2,000-2,749 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
2,750-3,749 | 7 | 3 | 2 |
3,750-4,749 | 8 | 4 | 2 |
4,750-5,999 | 9 | 4 | 2 |
>6,000 | 10 | 5 | 3 |
For NO2 and particulate matter: to include at least one urban- background station and one traffic-orientated station - this requirement shall also apply to benzene and carbon monoxide provided that it does not increase the number of sampling points |
If maximum concentrations exceed the upper assessment threshold | If maximum concentrations are between the upper and lower assessment thresholds |
1 station every 20,000 km2 | 1 station every 40,000 km2 |
Population (× 1,000) | Agglomerations (urban and suburban) (a) | Other zones (suburban and rural) (a) | Rural background |
0-250 | 1 | 1 station/50,000 km2 as an average density over all zones in England (b) | |
251-500 | 1 | 2 | " |
501-1,000 | 2 | 2 | " |
1,001-1,500 | 3 | 3 | " |
1,501-2,000 | 3 | 4 | " |
2,001-2,750 | 4 | 5 | " |
2,751-3,750 | 5 | 6 | " |
>3,750 | 1 additional station per 2 million inhabitants | 1 additional station per 2 million inhabitants |
Ethane | 1-Butene | Isoprene | Ethyl benzene |
Ethylene | trans-2-Butene | n-Hexane | m+p-Xylene |
Acetylene | cis-2-Butene | i-Hexane | o-Xylene |
Propane | 1.3-Butadiene | n-Heptane | 1,2,4-Trimeth. benzene |
Propene | n-Pentane | n-Octane | 1,2,3-Trimeth. benzene |
n-Butane | i-Pentane | i-Octane | 1,3,5-Trimeth. benzene |
i-Butane | 1-Pentene | Benzene | Formaldehyde |
2-Pentene | Toluene | Total non-methane hydrocarbons |
Sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and oxides of nitrogen | Particulate matter and lead | |
Continuous measurement | ||
Accuracy | 15% | 25% |
Minimum data capture | 90% | 90% |
Indicative measurement | ||
Accuracy | 25% | 50% |
Minimum data capture | 90% | 90% |
Minimum time coverage | 14% (One measurement a week at random, evenly distributed over the year, or eight weeks evenly distributed over the year.) | 14% (One measurement a week at random, evenly distributed over the year, or eight weeks evenly distributed over the year.) |
Modelling | ||
Accuracy: | ||
Hourly averages | 50%-60% | |
Daily averages | 50% | |
Annual averages | 30% | 50% |
Objective estimation | ||
Accuracy: | 75% | 100% |
Benzene | Carbon monoxide | |
Fixed measurements | ||
Uncertainty | 25% | 15% |
Minimum data capture | 90% | 90% |
Minimum time coverage | 35% urban background and traffic sites (distributed over the year to be representative of various conditions for climate and traffic) | |
90% industrial sites | ||
Indicative measurements | ||
Uncertainty | 30% | 25% |
Minimum data capture | 90% | 90% |
Minimum time coverage | 14% (one day's measurement a week at random, evenly distributed over the year, or 8 weeks evenly distributed over the year) | 14% (one measurement a week at random, evenly distributed over the year, or 8 weeks evenly distributed over the year) |
Modelling | ||
Uncertainty: | - | 50% |
Eight-hour averages | 50% | - |
Annual averages | ||
Objective estimation | ||
Uncertainty | 100% | 75% |
Where possible maps shall be compiled showing concentration distributions within each zone.
For ozone, NO and NO2 | |
Continuous fixed measurement | |
Uncertainty of individual measurements | 15% |
Minimum data capture |
90% during summer75% during winter |
Indicative measurement | |
Uncertainty of individual measurements | 30% |
Minimum data capture | 90% |
Minimum time coverage | >10% during summer |
Modelling | |
Uncertainty | 50% |
1 hour averages (daytime) | 50% |
8 hours daily maximum | |
Objective estimation | |
Uncertainty | 75% |
The Secretary of State shall ensure that maps are compiled showing concentration distributions within each zone.
2.
General information
3.
Responsible authorities
Names and addresses of persons responsible for the development and implementation of improvement plans.
4.
Nature and assessment of pollution
5.
Origin of pollution
6.
Analysis of the situation
7.
Details of those measures or projects for improvement which existed prior to 21st November 1996
8.
Details of those measures or projects adopted with a view to reducing pollution following 21st November 1996
9.
Details of the measures or projects planned or being researched for the long term.
10.
List of the publications, documents, work etc used to supplement information requested in this Schedule.
Regulations revoked | Reference | With effect from |
The Air Quality Standards Regulations 1989, insofar as they apply to England: | S.I. 1989/317 | |
Regulation 2(1) (limit values for sulphur dioxide and suspended particulates in the atmosphere) | 1st January 2005 | |
Regulation 4(1) (limit value for lead in air) | 1st January 2005 | |
Regulation 6 (limit value for nitrogen dioxide in the atmosphere) | 1st January 2010 | |
The Ozone Monitoring and Information Regulations | S.I. 1994/440 | 9th September 2003 |
The Air Quality Limit Values Regulations 2001 | S.I. 2001/2315 | 9th September 2003 |
The Air Quality Limit Values (Amendment) Regulations 2002 | S.I. 2002/3117 | 9th September 2003 |
Type of station | Level | Averaging/accumulation time | Provisional data for each month from April to September | Report for each year | |
Information threshold | Any | 180µg/m3 | 1 hour | - for each day with any exceedance: date, total hours of exceedance, maximum 1 hour ozone and related NO2 values when required - monthly 1 hour maximum ozone | - for each day with any exceedance: date, total hours of exceedance, maximum 1 hour ozone and related NO2 values, when required |
Alert threshold | Any | 240µg/m3 | 1 hour | - for each day with any exceedance: date, total hours of exceedance, maximum 1 hour ozone and related NO2 values, when required | - for each day with any exceedance: date, total hours of exceedance, maximum 1 hour ozone and related NO2 values, when required |
Health protection | Any | 120µg/m3 | 8 hours | - for each day with any exceedance: date, 8 hours maximum (b) | - for each day with any exceedance: date, 8 hours maximum (b) |
Vegetation protection | Suburban, rural, rural background | AOT40 (a) =6,000µg/m3.h | 1 hour, accumulated from May to June | Value | |
Forest protection | Suburban, rural, rural background | AOT40 (a) =20,000µg/m3.h | 1 hour, accumulated from April to September | Value | |
Materials | Any | 40 µg/m3 | 1 year | Value |
Data submitted in monthly reports are considered provisional and shall be updated where necessary in subsequent submissions.
Parameter | Required proportion of valid data |
1 hour values | 75% (45 minutes) |
8 hour values | 75% of values (6 hours) |
Maximum daily 8 hours mean from hourly running 8 hours averages | 75% of the hourly running 8 hour averages(8 hours per day) |
AOT40 | 90% of the 1 hour values over the time period defined for calculating the AOT40 value (a) |
Annual mean | 75% of the 1 hour values over summer (April to September) and winter (January to March, October to December) seasons separately |
Number of exceedances and maximum values per month | 90% of the daily maximum 8 hours mean value (27 available daily values per month) 90% of the 1 hour values between 8:00 and 20:00 Central European Time |
Number of exceedances and maximum values per year | Five out of six summer months over the summer season (April to September) |
AOT40(estimate) =AOT40 measured × | total possible number of hours* |
number of measured hourly values |
[3] OJ No. L 296, 21.11.1996, p. 55.back
[4] See footnote (a) to regulation 3.back
[5] OJ No. L163, 29.6.1999, p. 41.back
[6] OJ No. L313, 13.12.2000, p. 12.back
[7] 1995 c. 25; section 85 was amended by the Greater London Authority Act 1999 (c. 29), section 367.back
[8] OJ No. L 229, 30.8.1980, p. 30.back
[9] The figures for margins of tolerance for each of the relevant pollutants given in this Schedule are calculated from those given in Annexes I to IV of Directive 99/30/EC.back
[10] OJ No. L 125, 18.5.1994, p. 1.back
[11] Copies of these International Standards Organisation publications can be purchased from the British Standards Institution 'BSI' sales department either by telephone on 0208-996-9001 or by post from the BSI, Standards House, 389 Chiswick High Road, London W4 4AL.back
[12] Copies of these International Standards Organisation publications can be purchased from the British Standards Institution 'BSI' sales department either by telephone on 0208-996-9001 or by post from the BSI, Standards House, 389 Chiswick High Road, London W4 4AL.back
[13] See footnote (a) to Part I of Schedule 7 above for location of ISO publications.back
[14] See footnote (a) to Part I of Schedule 7 above for location of ISO publications.back
[15] Copies of these International Standards Organisation publications can be purchased from the British Standards Institution 'BSI' sales department either by telephone on 020-8996-9001 or by post from the BSI, Standards House, 389 Chiswick High Road, London W4 4AL.back
[16] Copies of these International Standards Organisation publications can be purchased from the British Standards Institution 'BSI' sales department either by telephone on 020-8996-9001 or by post from the BSI, Standards House, 389 Chiswick High Road, London W4 4AL.back
[17] See footnote (a) to Part I of Schedule 7 above for location of ISO documents.back
[18] See footnote (a) to Part I of Schedule 7 above for location of ISO documents.back
[19] OJ No. L 378, 31.12.1982, p. 15.back
[20] See footnote (a) to Part I of Schedule 7 above for location of ISO documents.back
[21] European Standards Institute 'CEN' publication reference BSEN 12341, obtainable from the British Standards Institution: see footnote (a) to Part I of Schedule 7 above.back
[22] OJ No. L035, 5.2.1997, p. 14.back
[23] OJ No. L296, 21.11.1996, p. 55.back
[24] OJ No. L163, 29.6.1999, p. 41, amended by Commission Decision 2001/744/EC, OJ No. L278, 23.10.2001, p. 35.back
[25] OJ No. L313, 13.12.2000, p. 12.back
[26] OJ No. L67, 9.3.2002, p. 14.back
[28] OJ No. L278, 23.10.2001, p. 35.back