Combustion of large quantities of fuel at industrial sites generates various types of air pollutant, which represent a major source of environmental degradation. Shuaiba Industrial Area (SIA) is considered the most important industrial area in Kuwait because it is a centre for heavy industry. Analysis of the real-time monitoring data collected by a mobile laboratory showed that a number of high smog days were observed at SIA. The results indicated that in summer, especially in September, SIA is subject to ambient ozone concentrations equal to or exceeding the National Ambient Air Quality Standard of 120 ppb. It was found that the days that show high photochemically reactive air exhibit similar pollutant levels and meteorological specifications. The results highlight the role of the sea breeze in transporting and circulating ozone and unconsumed ozone precursors. In order to understand the reasons for high ozone concentrations and to evaluate the nature of the observed ozone episodes, the Integrated Empirical Rate (IER) chemical reaction model was used. The IER model can be used to interpret the air ambient monitoring data and it is a valuable tool for assessing ozone precursor control strategies. A detailed evaluation using the IER model, performed for one day of SIA monitoring data, is presented in this paper as a case study. Moreover, a detailed discussion of the data interpretation is given using this day as an example to indicate whether the local photochemistry of peak ozone events is light-limited or NOx limited. This information is needed in developing an effective emission control plan for the industrial site. It was concluded that for the light-limited air parcels monitored between 05.00 hrs and 10.30 hrs, hydrocarbon reduction is required for a reduction in ozone concentration. For the NOx limited parcels detected between 10.30 hrs and 18.30 hrs, reduction in NOx emissions would reduce the ozone concentration.