| Comment | Construction equipment is the second largest source of
dieselpollution in the state, accounting for 20% of particulate
matter(soot) and 16% of smog-forming Nitrogen Oxides (NOx).
Thesepollutants are two of the biggest pollution hazards for
publichealth in California and throughout the country. -- Exposure
to smog can have serious effects on respiratoryhealth. Inflammation
and irritation of the respiratory tract cancause shortness of
breath, throat irritation, chest pains andcoughing, and lead to
asthma attacks, hospital admissions andemergency room visits. --
Particulate air pollution or soot can be inhaled and reachdeep
into the lungs. These tiny particulates can enter thecirculatory
system and damage blood vessels. Particulatepollution is
associated with heart attacks, irregular heartbeat,asthma attacks,
reduced lung function and bronchitis. -- These health impacts
result in tens of thousands of prematuredeaths in the U.S. from
heart and lung disease annually, as wellas hospital admissions,
emergency room visits, absences fromschool or work, and restricted
activities related to asthmaattacks. Children are especially
vulnerable because their lungsare still developing.
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