What is haze?
Haze is traditionally an atmospheric phenomenon in which dust, smoke and other dry particulates obscure the clarity of the sky.
It is an environmental phenomenon caused by tiny particulates suspended in the atmosphere. These particulates are usually unseen by naked eyes, but when these particles accumulate in large quantities and in groups, they can scatter and absorb sunlight resulting in diminished visibility.
Natural causes of air pollution are floating dusts from the forests, ground surfaces, oceans as well as volcanic ashes. Meanwhile, human activities contributing to haze include vehicular emissions, fossil fuels in industrial boilers, open burning, forest fires and land clearing.
Haze often occurs when dust and smoke particles accumulate in relatively dry air. When weather conditions block the dispersal of smoke and other pollutants they concentrate and form a usually low-hanging shroud that impairs visibility and may become a respiratory health threat. Industrial pollution can result in dense haze, which is known as smog.
Since 1991, haze has been a particularly acute problem in Southeast Asia. The main source of the haze has been fires occurring in Sumatra and Borneo.
Adverse effects of haze
on health
Continuous haze can lead to detrimental effects on health, especially to these high risks groups namely children, old age group, pregnant ladies, those with chronic illnesses (lung diseases, cardiovascular diseases and cerebrovascular diseases), allergies, immunocompromised (low immunity) patients, smokers as well as those who have to work outdoors.
General health advisory
– The publics are advised to limit exposure to haze and stay indoor as much as possible
– Reduce rigorous outdoor activities
– Cover mouth and nose when being outdoors especially those high risk groups and motorcyclists
– Drink plenty of clear fluid to keep hydrated
– Wash hands and face; bath more frequently
– Seek immediate medical attention especially those experiencing worsening cough, runny nose, difficulty to breathe or teary eyes
– Use recirculating mode and close all the windows when operating air-condition inside the car
– Drivers are advised to switch on the headlights when driving, to ensure they can see and can be seen
– Smokers are advised to stop smoking
– Keep updated with the latest information from mass media and follow advise from the authority
Health Control & Preventive measures to be adhered during haze according to Air Pollutant Index (API)
Types of masks suitable for protection against the haze
Surgical mask
Also known as face mask or three-ply mask, can filter up to 12 percent of particulates. It does not stick to the contour of the face; hence unfiltered air can enter through the space between the face and the mask.
N95 Mask
This mask is approved by National Institute of Occupational Safety & Health, both Malaysia and internationally. This mask can filter up to 95 percent of particulates, as tiny as 0.1 to 0.3 micron. It also follows the contour of the face, hence filtering most of the air before being breathed in.
