scope:

Introduction

Air pollution measurements are carried out to answer specific questions regarding specified air quality characteristics in a given area or at specified locations. A leading role is generally played by questions as to the effect of air pollutants on protected objects. The object of measurement planning is to analyze submitted objectives and from this to derive requirements of the organization, the measurement method, the measurement strategy, the assessment, the quality assurance and reporting. Guideline VDI 4280 Part 1 [T14] describes in general form rules which shall be heeded in the planning of measurements of air pollutants outside buildings and vehicles. Part 1 is based on a list of questions which shall be answered in the appropriate sections of measurement plans.

Guideline VDI 4280 Part 1 [T14] describes in general form rules which shall be heeded in the planning of measurements of air pollutants outside buildings and vehicles. Part 1 is based on a list of questions which shall be answered in the appropriate sections of measurement plans.

The present Part 2 of guideline VDI 4280 details the requirements formulated in Part 1 with respect to studying traffic-related air pollution at key points where pollution occurs. The planning of area-related studies is dealt with in a further part of this guideline.

The considerations in Part 2 reproduce fundamental knowledge to be taken into account in the planning of traffic-related studies. This also includes the specific requirements of the 22nd and 23rd German Air Pollution Control Regulations (BImSchV) [G2, G3]. This is intended to enable planning of air pollution measurements in such a manner that any question asked can be answered with sufficient meaningfulness and with reasonable expenditure. This is intended to result in the fact that the measurement results obtained can be assessed with respect to their representative nature and measurement uncertainty.

Traffic-related air pollutants play an important role in urban areas in particular in the vicinity of very busy roads. Vehicle occupants as well as passers by and residents are exposed to these air pollutants. To answer the question as to whether such air pollutants can lead to harmful effects on humans, not only is the concentration of the air pollutant of importance, but also the residence time of humans in the vicinity of the road traffic. When possible routes of pollution for residents are being studied, in addition to the outdoor air, indoor air pollution may also need to be taken into account. Guideline VDI 4300 [T15] deals with the planning of indoor air quality monitoring.

The present guideline is relevant to all those involved with the planning, performance or assessment of studies of traffic-related air pollution. The contents of this guideline can serve clients and contractors equally as a reference base, for example for formulating specifications and articles and conditions for performing studies on air quality.

To use this guideline and carry out measurement planning, fundamental knowledge in the following areas is helpful:

• Assessment of air pollutants and effects

• Atmospheric chemistry

• Methodology in the trace analysis area

• Meteorology

• Statistics

• Quality assurance