Air Quality Update for September 15
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Announced: September 14, 2020, 5 p.m.
To: Faculty & Staff
From: Environmental Health & Safety
I am sure all of us recognized and appreciated the increase in the air quality this afternoon, however, the Butte County Air Quality Management District and AirNow have listed tomorrow’s 24 hour average forecasted Air Quality Index (AQI) as “ Very Unhealthy” once again. This level carries the advisory that “people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children should avoid all physical activity outdoors. Everyone else should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion.” As a reminder, the forecast is an average of 24-hours and current conditions hour by hour may be different than forecasted.
The University has applied the Environmental Protection Agency’s advisory to campus operations as follows:
If AQI is 201 – 300 (very unhealthy) EVERYONE must be concerned. Campus remains open. All outdoor physical activity/work will be suspended until the air quality is better. If outdoor work is absolutely necessary, N95 respirators will be provided for voluntary use. Indoor work/events/activities/academic classes will continue as scheduled, per consultation with the President and Cabinet. If available, the university will issue N95 masks to persons in sensitive groups.
Due to the suspension of outdoor activity/work employees should contact their manager upon arrival to campus, unless they have received instructions related to work details.
While on campus, the best air quality is inside buildings due to air filtration. All individuals should limit their time outdoors, and if outdoors choose less strenuous activities.
Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) will continue monitoring the AQI. Updated guidance will be sent accordingly. For additional information about air quality, please visit the Environmental Health & Safety website. You can also monitor current quality conditions at AirNow.
If you have any questions, please contact your manager or EHS Director Marvin Pratt at 530-898-5126