(The guidelines listed below are recommended when the EPA’s outdoor AQI of 101 is reached to align with LBNL buildings being placed in ventilation “Wildfire Smoke Mode”, to account for sensitive groups and the National Ambient Air Quality Standard; however, Lab Operations may only begin to send out Lab wide air quality notifications when air quality is considered unhealthy for the general public or an AQI level of 151-200. See LBNL Guidance / Response Actions by AQI Level).
- Avoid or limit going outside and heavy exertion depending on your smoke sensitivity.
- Avoid or limit outdoor exercise depending on your smoke sensitivity.
- Ensure your and colleagues’ windows/exterior doors are closed to help protect buildings.
- Eliminate indoor use of aerosol sprays, other personal or commercial products that generate aerosols or fragrances that may affect you or others around you due to building ventilation systems being placed in Wildfire Smoke Modes.
- Avoid cooking or preparing food with strong odors.
- If you need to drive government vehicles, keep windows closed and use the recirculated air feature (if applicable).
- If you must come to work, consider using a portable air cleaner (See Building Ventilation & Portable Air Purifiers menu selection).
- Avoid prolonged propping open doors for moves, etc.
- Notify your building manager or Facility Area Manager (FAM) if you notice sources of outside air infiltration.
- If possible, work in an onsite building with a lower AQI level by searching PurpleAir.com realtime map. See also the Building Ventilation & Portable Air Purifiers menu topic for some example buildings.
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has an excellent, broad topic resource document entitled, “Wildfire Smoke – Considerations for California’s Public Health Officials”.