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Secondary Standards

Definition

Secondary standards are non-legally enforceable guidelines set by regulatory agencies to protect public welfare, including environmental aesthetics, property damage prevention, and other non-health-related concerns. These standards focus on pollutants that may cause nuisance or aesthetic issues but do not pose immediate health risks.

Analogy

Imagine secondary standards as recommendations for maintaining a clean and pleasant living environment. They are like guidelines for keeping your room tidy and organized, even though it won't directly affect your health.

Related terms

Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL): A regulatory framework that sets limits on the amount of pollutants allowed in water bodies to meet water quality goals, including both primary and secondary standards.

Odor Threshold: The concentration at which a substance becomes detectable by smell. Secondary standards may include limits on odorous substances to prevent unpleasant smells in the environment.

Visual Air Quality Index (VAQI): A measure used to assess air pollution levels based on visibility impairment caused by particulate matter. It helps evaluate compliance with secondary air quality standards related to visual clarity.