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.

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.