EEAST Launches Pioneering Study on Ambulance Crew Air Quality Exposure

Dec 6, 2024 | Blog

Why This Study Matters

The impact of vehicle emissions on frontline healthcare workers has long been overlooked. With ambulances often needing to idle to power essential medical equipment, crews face prolonged exposure to pollutants during their critical work. This issue has been raised before and we welcome the start of a project to protect the health of healthcare workers and patients.

The MAPA Study

The East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) has initiated the Measuring Air Pollution from Ambulances (MAPA) study, funded by The CO Research Trust (CORT). This research will deploy various monitoring methods, including static air quality sensors at ambulance bays and inside vehicles.

Working alongside Anglia Ruskin University and University of Suffolk, EMSOL will contribute its air quality expertise to gather and analyse crucial data. The findings will inform future larger-scale investigations and potential mitigation strategies.

Adrian McConnell, Chief Executive of the CO Research Trust, said: “We hope this pilot will help understand pollution levels outside emergency departments and its effects. The study will also develop solutions to mitigate any risks and protect healthcare workers.”

Broader NHS Sustainability Context

This research aligns with both EEAST’s local initiatives and the NHS’s wider sustainability commitments. The health service has recognised that environmental impact and public health are intrinsically linked, with 1 in 4 hospitals located in areas exceeding WHO air quality guidelines.

EEAST is actively addressing these challenges through several key initiatives:

  • 40 new ambulances (10% of the fleet) equipped with anti-idling technology
  • All future ambulance purchases will include this emissions-reducing capability
  • Eight electric mental health response vehicles already in service
  • Three trial electric rapid response vehicles, with 15 more by December
  • Three electric ambulances planned for summer 2025

This local action supports the NHS’s broader environmental strategy:

  • Net zero emissions target for 2040
  • Supply chain emissions focus, which account for over 60% of the NHS’s carbon footprint
  • Commitment to phase out high-emission vehicles
  • Investment in sustainable infrastructure across healthcare sites

Looking Forward

EMSOL’s involvement builds upon our extensive experience working with NHS Trusts. We look forward to supporting this crucial research into protecting the health of those who protect us.

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