Pilot study identifies more research is needed into air pollution levels in ambulance bays

The research examined air quality in and around ambulances at one Emergency Department (ED) site.

The study, conducted between November 2024 and March 2025, collected data across three areas: static air quality monitoring in one ED ambulance bay, mobile monitoring inside ambulances, and physiological measurements of carbon monoxide (CO) saturation in healthcare staff.

Summary of Findings:

Air quality sensors recorded statistically significantly higher concentrations of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and carbon monoxide (CO) in the ED ambulance bay compared to a nearby reference location.

Inside ambulances, occasional high peak concentrations of pollutants were observed, although average levels remained below regulatory thresholds.

CO saturation measurements in 160 staff showed no values above clinical significance. However, 19% of participants reported symptoms such as headache and fatigue while working in the ambulance bay.

No correlation was found between the number of ambulances queuing outside the ED and pollutant concentrations.

The MAPA Pilot Study provides initial evidence to support further investigation into occupational exposure to air pollution among ambulance staff and the environmental conditions of ED ambulance bays.

“We hope this pilot will contribute to understanding the environmental conditions ambulance crews work in,” said Adrian McConnell, Chief Executive of the Carbon Monoxide Research Trust.

“While current data indicates that staff exposure levels remain within established short- and long-term workplace safety limits, the findings highlight a clear operational challenge for the ambulance sector. There is a pressing need to address environmental emissions associated with ambulance activity, particularly during patient handovers at Emergency Departments.” said Martin Judd, Head of Health, Safety and Security at EEAST.

A stakeholder roundtable is planned to review the study’s recommendations and discuss potential mitigation strategies.

About the CO Research Trust

The CO Research Trust is a registered charity, established in 2005, at the forefront of efforts to reduce the incidents of death and serious injury from carbon monoxide exposure. We are committed to having the biggest possible impact for everyone affected by CO exposure.

For further information contact Kimberly Allen kimberly@coresearchtrust.org

About Research in EEAST

East of England Ambulance Service provides accident and emergency services for people in need of urgent medical treatment and transport in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire. We make sure patients with serious or life-threatening injuries and illnesses get the care they need 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Our Research Support Services team delivers high-quality research in prehospital care, participating in national studies and designing local projects, of which MAPA Pilot is an example.

For further information contact media@eastamb.nhs.uk or research@eastamb.nhs.uk