POLLUTION SURVEY

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 28950, 18 July 1959, Page 12

POLLUTION SURVEY

Gauges Used For Seven Weeks

Sampling for air pollution began on May 29 at 11 widespread points in Christchurch. This announcement was made yesterday by Professor S. R. Siemon, acting chairman of the air pollution advisory committee of the Regional Planning Authority. A special report in “The Press” this week said that “smog” sampling could not begin this winter. Professor Siemon said it was true that the full range of gauges for 18 sampling points had not yet arrived; but lead peroxide gauges to measure sulphur dioxide had been in operation for nearly seven weeks. It was not yet known when the additional gauges anu smoke filters would arrive.

The Regional Planning Officer <Miss Nancy Northcroft) said the present gauges would be changed once a month and the used elements sent to the Dominion Laboratory of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research for analysis. It might be some time before comparative readings could be given. The important point was that a measure of sampling had been started this winter and would thus give some indication of seasonal variations. Some “smog” characteristics of the recent togs might also be apparent. Recordings would be carried on through the summer and intensified when additional equipment arrived.