PSI inches into moderate range

PSI inches into moderate range

There will be sufficient N95 masks if the haze returns, MOH says

PUBLISHED: MARCH 4, 8:01 PM
SINGAPORE — The Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) today (March 4) inched above 50 into the “moderate” range for the first time in more than two months.

As of 6pm, the 3-hour PSI reading was 55.The 3-hour PSI reading first hit 51 past 11am before going down again before 2pm.

The 24-hour PSI, which reflects PSI readings over a 24-hour period, was between 42 and 50 at 6pm.

Singapore saw its PSI reading hit a record 401, which is in the ‘hazardous’ range, last June.

Separately, the Ministry of Health (MOH) assured the public that there are sufficient N95 masks, if the haze returns.

Parliamentary Secretary for Health Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim gave the assurance in Parliament today, saying N95 masks are currently available at major retail outlets.

“If you look at the inventory of the major retailers, we have about 280,000 N95 masks. Nevertheless, for the national stockpile, we have 16 million N95 masks,” said Dr Faishal.

The MOH has also worked with the People’s Association on plans to distribute the N95 masks to the needy through grassroots organisations.

Dr Faishal also said the criteria for the distribution of masks will be reviewed together with the relevant ministries.

He was responding to a question by Non-Constituency Member of Parliament, Mr Yee Jenn Jong, on the stock of N95 masks.

Dr Faishal also urged the public to follow the recommendations in health advisories issued by the Ministry of Health during a haze situation.

N95 masks are generally not needed for short exposure, such as commuting from home to school or work. They are also not needed in an indoor environment.

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