Free Software Conducts Air Pollutant Risk Assessments

The National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), a Japanese independent administrative institution, has developed software that can conduct quick and easy estimates of chemical pollutant levels in the air and affecting human after the key data have been entered. AIST has offered the software (in Japanese) for free on its website since August 26, 2003 (http://www.aist-riss.jp/software/admer/ja/index_ja.html).

The Atmospheric Dispersion Model for Exposure and Risk Assessment (ADMER) analyzes meteorological data and uses population distribution data that has already been entered into the model. It provides quick and easy simulations of the status of air pollution and the number of people exposed to air pollutant risk in any given area, in blocks of five square kilometers. ADMER shows the results of the simulation visually in charts and maps, and has a results analysis function. The system's validity has been proven by comparison with actual field data for nitrogen oxide levels.

Only a Japanese language version is currently available, covering areas within Japan, but AIST plans to release an English version in the future, and to expand coverage to areas outside Japan. Although in the past, the ability to conduct assessments of exposure levels and risk was limited to experts, the ADMER system now enables a broader audience, including researchers, government officials and companies, to conduct these assessments. It is hoped that the system will help promote chemical risk management.



Posted: 2003/11/27 07:45:10 PM
Japanese version