Exactly the point...turns it into an indoor event, for some people. I was wondering about this, as in: there's a rule when they close the roof for heat, I believe. When do they close it for poor air quality? Is there a rule? Plus, I think only 3 stadiums have roofs, so doesn't that segregate who gets to play in "good" air? No so simple as "smoke won't be much of a factor," I don't think.
From the AO website:
The AO Air Quality Policy is based on a scaled Air Quality Rating determined by analysing concentrations of air pollutants at Melbourne Park. The Air Quality Rating scale runs from 1-5.
Level 1: Good playing conditions.
Level 2: Moderate playing conditions.
Level 3: Air quality may affect sensitive groups
Sensitive groups – those with pre-existing medical conditions (for example respiratory illness, asthma, heart conditions, elderly, and people who are pregnant) - should minimise time outside. Individuals suffering any form of respiratory distress should seek medical advice.
Level 4: Elevated air pollution.
Conditions monitored closely. Matches may be suspended. Sensitive groups – those with pre-existing medical conditions (for example respiratory illness, asthma, heart conditions, elderly, and people who are pregnant) - should minimise time outside. Individuals suffering any form of respiratory distress should seek medical advice.
Level 5: Air Quality Policy activated. Details:
> Matches in progress on outdoor courts will continue until the end of an even number of games in that set (or completion of tiebreak), then matches will be suspended.
> Where play has commenced on an arena court with a roof open, the match will continue until the completion of an even number of games or tiebreak, then the roof will close and matches will be suspended until the Air Quality Rating in the arena drops below 5. The roof will then remain closed for the remainder of the match.
> Air quality assessment will take place continually throughout the day, and any decision on suspension or resumption of play will take into account advice from onsite medical experts, visibility, changes to weather forecast, and any other factors deemed relevant.
> Sensitive groups – those with pre-existing medical conditions (for example respiratory illness, asthma, heart conditions, elderly, and people who are pregnant) - should minimise time outside. Individuals suffering any form of respiratory distress should seek medical advice.
