AQI on the Eugene Campus is over 100

Posted on by kristam

08/24/2023 – 11:25 am

The Eugene campus is experiencing the impacts of wildfire smoke from nearby fires and the AQI is currently over 100. 

If on campus, please close windows and doors. Laboratories, please close hoods if feasible.

The University has a series of both requirements and recommendations for action when AQI reaches certain levels. These are summarized below. 

Oregon OSHA has a series of requirements for UO staff working outdoors.  Supervisors will receive notifications at 101, 251 and 501, and when the AQI moves below these levels. Direction notifications will be made to supervisors when these levels are reached. 

  • >100:  Outdoor staff may voluntarily use an N95 respirator to continue their outdoor work.  
  • >250:  Outdoor staff should be reassigned work to indoor locations to the extent possible. For work that must continue outside, N95 respirators are now required.
  • >500: Staff working outdoors must have prior enrollment in the UO Respiratory Protection and use of appropriate respirators is required.

UO has developed a policy for UO hosted programs.  Program staff who have signed up for AQI notifications will receive texts and emails at 101, 251 and 501, and when the AQI moves below these levels.  Individuals and event organizers should self-monitor AirNow for AQI levels between 151 and 250. No direct notifications will be made at these levels. 

  • >100: Recommended that youth programs suspend or move inside.  
  • >150: Members of the campus community are expected to use their best judgment in assessing the risk of smoke exposure related to coming and going to campus and participating in outdoor activities on campus, based on individual circumstances. 
  • >200:  Recommended that all programs suspend or move inside.  
  • >250: All UO hosted programs must be suspended or moved inside.  

Information on campus operations related to wildfire smoke is available on the Human Resources website. 

Air Quality Safety Tips

  • Air pollution levels are measured by the Air Quality Index (AQI) which includes gases and particulate matter. The higher the levels on the AQI, the greater the potential health risks.
  • Smoke can cause adverse health effects. While wildfire smoke can contain hazardous chemicals, the main exposure concern for people who are not close to the fire are the tiny particles (particulate matter or PM) suspended in the air. The smallest particles, called PM 2.5 because they are 2.5 microns in diameter or smaller, are considered most harmful because they can penetrate deep within the respiratory system.
  • Elevated levels of particulate matter found in wildfire smoke can irritate the lungs and cause persistent coughing, phlegm, wheezing, itchy eyes, sinus issues, difficulty breathing or chest tightness. Particulate matter can also cause more serious problems, such as: reduced lung function, bronchitis, worsening of asthma, and heart failure.
  • Sensitivity to PM varies by individual. Sensitive groups may include people with heart or lung disease (e.g., asthma, COPD), individuals over the age of 65, pregnant women, and children. Individuals who are sensitive to PM might experience symptoms at AQI levels below 150.
  • 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. Consider using an N95 respirator mask, if necessary, when going outdoors.
  • 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.