What is measured during diesel exhaust monitoring?

During diesel exhaust monitoring, the key substance measured is Elemental Carbon (EC), which represents the soot-like particles from diesel engines. EC is the most widely accepted marker because it’s strongly linked to health risks and specific to diesel fumes.

In some settings, especially in construction or tunnelling, other substances might also be measured:

• Nitrogen Oxides (NO and NOâ‚‚) – gases that irritate the lungs and are found in diesel emissions.

• Particulate Matter (PM2.5 or PM10) – fine dust that can worsen respiratory issues.

• Carbon Monoxide (CO) – less common in diesel but still worth watching in enclosed spaces.

Which markers are used depends on your risk assessment. Elemental Carbon is the gold standard, but a full picture may require more.