Initial work to improve Philadelphia's air quality included investigating, testing and inspecting individual sources of pollution within the city and working with those industries to find ways to make improvements. Coal-burning train locomotives were completely eliminated from the Philadelphia area in the early 1950s. Open burning was prohibited throughout the city by 1966. Today Air Management Services works with the residents and industries of Philadelphia to ensure healthy air quality in Philadelphia by enforcing air pollution laws and regulations.

AMS monitors air quality by using a network of sophisticated air measuring instruments operating continuously at sites located throughout the city. The network also serves as a warning system when poor air quality conditions exist. The Department of Public Health participates in the regional Ozone Action Partnership that will issue health advisories to the general public when levels are expected to be high.

AMS is also responsible for the regulation of noise and vibration pollution problems and hazardous air pollutants such as asbestos.

Significant improvements have been made in Philadelphia's air quality over the years. By today's standards, over half of all days in Philadelphia in 1962 would have been considered unhealthful. Remarkably, the city currently averages only two or three unhealthful air days each year and new procedures are being put into place that will result in further improvement.

Air Monitoring Station on Race Street, 1966 interior and exterior views.