Any day with hourly ozone concentrations higher than 0.12 is called an exceedance of the ozone standard. If more than 3 exceedance days over the most recent three year time period, are measured at any one monitor, this constitutes a violation of the ozone standard. Since that time, the Cincinnati area has received two extensions of the attainment date. If the area averages no more than 1 expected exceedance per year for each monitoring site, during the three year period of 1996-1998, then it will be attaining the 1 hour 0.12 ppm public health standard for ozone. This would mean that new industries would need to get more emission reductions, enhanced inspection and maintenance of automobiles would be mandatory, additional air monitoring would be required, the State would need a plan for another 9 percent reduction in ozone forming pollution and there would be requirements for clean fueled vehicles.
Ozone is a gas and the main component of smog.
Ozone can irritate mucous membranes and cause coughing, choking and impaired lung functions with prolonged exposure. Children, the elderly and people with bronchial conditions are apparently at risk. Ozone is formed when pollution from cars, trucks, industry and other sources combines in sunlight. In the Cincinnati area, ozone monitoring occurs April through October. However, high levels of ozone generally develop June through August.