October 10, 2022 – 5:45 pm

Wildfire smoke from the Cedar Creek fire east of Oakridge is expected to continue to affect the greater Eugene and Springfield area, including the Eugene campus community, through the rest of this week. We will likely experience wildfire smoke episodes until fall rains end wildfire season.

Wildfire smoke’s air pollution levels are measured by the Air Quality Index (AQI). For the latest information about air quality, please visit AirNow.

The University takes several steps to protect the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff. When the AQI exceeds 100, facilities services places buildings with modern HVAC systems into “Smoke Mode.” Smoke mode minimizes the introduction of outside air and maximizes recirculation of inside air in buildings. Please assist in maintaining “Smoke Mode” by keeping doors and windows closed. Additionally, supervisors of employees who work outdoors are notified to let employees know about the AQI and offer voluntary use of N95 respirators.

When the (AQI) is greater than 200, public health guidance recommends that all outdoor activities be canceled, postponed, or moved indoors. This includes scheduled outdoor classes and class activities, physical education classes, club sports, and other outdoor events planned through university-related organizations.

Additional guidance for supervisors and employees is available on Human Resources’ Inclement Weather: Air Quality Issues site. We encourage employees and supervisors to review the guidance and work together to discuss and address individual workplace concerns.

Individuals can take steps to limit personal exposure as well. These steps include:

• Review health risks associated with wildfire smoke.
• Pick up a free KN95 mask at one of many distribution sites.
  • EMU – O Desk
  • Lillis – Atrium reception desk
  • Hamilton Hall – Service center
  • Barnhart Hall – Service center
  • Global Scholars Hall – Service center
  • Knight Library – Check out and reserve desk
  • Price Science Commons – Service desk
  • HEDCO – Reception desk in suite 130
• Stay inside with the doors and windows closed and where possible, avoid strenuous outdoor activities (e.g., going for a run) during heavy smoke events.
• Stay hydrated by drinking water.
• Recirculate the air in your home’s central heating/cooling system (shut off the fresh air intake) and make sure the filter has been recently changed. Avoid vacuuming, burning candles or other activities that increase indoor air pollution.

Questions can be directed to ehsinfo@uoregon.edu