Data Limitations and Use By Berkeley Lab

Data from low-cost AQI sensors for sale in the general consumer industry are subject to the capabilities, maintenance, calibration, proper installation, installation location and other limitations of these systems. Data from low-cost sensors do not usually meet the high quality standards compared to EPA permanent sensors found on the EPA's AirNow Fire and Smoke Map.

AQI data using low-cost sensors are used by Berkeley Lab for informational purposes such as for generally tracking changing smoke plume conditions. Berkeley Lab decisions related to complying with Cal/OSHA requirements for outdoor worker protection purposes and other operational decisions will primarily be based on the EPA's AirNow Fire and Smoke website sensor data.