A study to explore the impact of exhaust fumes on air pollution levels outside emergency departments has been launched by the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST).
The study, funded by The CO Research Trust (CORT), aims to understand and help address the effects of prolonged ambulance idling.
During periods when crews care for patients, ambulances often idle their engines to provide heating, cooling, and power for medical equipment. This generates emissions.
The Measuring Air Pollution from Ambulances (MAPA) study will test methods of measuring air quality levels to inform the need for a larger investigation.
EEAST is working in partnership with Anglia Ruskin University, University of Suffolk and EMSOL to deliver the research into air pollution.
The pilot will measure air quality through a variety of sensors. These include static air quality sensors at ambulance bays, inside ambulances, and using non-invasive tests on the levels of carbon monoxide present in the crews.
The aim is to better understand air pollution levels outside emergency departments and their effects. The findings will be used to develop solutions to mitigate any risks and protect healthcare workers, as well as to plan a larger-scale study.
Theresa Foster, head of research at EEAST, said: ‘The MAPA pilot will produce rigorous findings in this area so we can build upon the work the Trust already doing to tackle our emissions.’
EEAST already have several sustainability initiatives and technological advances to reduce emissions in line with wider net zero NHS targets.
There are 40 new ambulances – around 10% of the total ambulance fleet – that are fitted with new technology to turn off idling engines. All future ambulances will be fitted with this technology.
The Trust also has many electric vehicles, including eight mental health vehicles, three trial rapid response vehicles, with a further 15 by the end of December, and three ambulances planned for summer 2025.
