Following an ozone concentration measurement of 182 μg/ m3 in Esch/Alzette earlier this afternoon, the Government has announced that the motorway speed limit has been reduced to 90 km/h.
This measure is usually put into place when ozone levels surpass 160 μg/m3, and levels measured earlier today indicate an ozone concentration 2 μg/ m3 above the European threshold. This threshold is defined as a level at which short exposure presents a risk to human health for 'particularly sensitive groups' or vulnerable people, such as the elderly, children, or those suffering from respiratory or cardiac illnesses.
Symptoms tend to vary according to the individual, but may include headaches; irritated eyes and throat; breathing difficulties; and a rise in asthma attacks. When such levels are present in the atmosphere, it is generally suggested to those susceptible to avoid intense physical activity, especially between midday and midnight. Staying inside can significantly improve symptoms, as ozone concentrations tend to be halved inside buildings.
As such concentrations are exacerbated by road traffic, as well as organic solvents, the Environmental administration of the Government has suggested that the public opt to take public transport rather than cars, especially in cases where a personal vehicle is not equipped with a catalyst and therefore emits more fumes, and that the public avoid the use of paints and other products containing organic solvents.
