Why air quality matters

If your organization does outdoor activities, the health and safety of your participants is your top priority. With the increasing frequency of wildfires, urban pollution and other air quality issues, preparing for poor air quality is essential to ensure everyone can enjoy a safe and enriching outdoor experience. 

Areas of the country not prone to wildfires may be less prepared when faced with air quality issues. Poor air quality can lead to serious health problems, especially for children, older adults and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. 

By proactively planning for air quality issues, you can safeguard the well-being of staff, volunteers and visitors, maintain your reputation, and avoid potential liability issues. 

Check out the following key points your organization should include in air quality plans and policies. 

• Monitor air quality regularly. While checking daily weather reports, check the Air Quality Index (AQI) from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or local air quality monitoring services. Set up alerts to stay informed about changes in air quality. Use the AQI basics chart to determine adjustments to your programming based on this monitoring. 

• Establish air quality action levels. Define specific AQI thresholds that trigger different response levels. For example, set guidelines for limiting outdoor activities when AQI exceeds 100 (moderate) and canceling or moving activities indoors when AQI exceeds 150 (unhealthy). 

• Create indoor alternatives. Consider how you would handle rainy or weather elements that bring activities indoors and utilize these options when unhealthy air quality levels are in effect. Develop additional indoor activities or programs that can be implemented with poor outdoor air quality. This could include arts and crafts, indoor sports, or educational workshops. 

• Invest in portable air cleaners. Use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to improve air quality in indoor spaces. Portable air cleaners can be moved to different locations as needed. 

• Implement shelter-in-place protocols. Identify and prepare indoor areas where campers can take breaks during poor air quality events. Ensure these areas are well-sealed and equipped with air purifiers. Ozone levels are less in the mornings so indoor areas may be more heavily used in the afternoons. The activity level should be adjusted if the program operates without indoor spaces. 

• Communicate with parents and guardians. If applicable, keep parents informed about your air quality policies and procedures. Provide regular updates during air quality events and reassure them you are taking steps to protect their children. Working with parents and guardians in advance on asthma action plans will ensure planning is in place if needed during air quality situations.  

• Train staff on air quality procedures. Educate your staff about the importance of air quality and how to respond to different air quality levels. Ensure they know how to recognize symptoms of air quality-related health issues. Staff should be aware of these needs for participants who require rescue breathing medications and have quick access to these medications. 

• Stock up on protective gear. Provide N95 masks or other appropriate respiratory protection for staff, volunteers and visitors, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions. Ensure there are enough supplies for extended periods of poor air quality.  

• Encourage hydration and breaks. Promote frequent hydration and regular breaks to help staff, volunteers and visitors cope with the effects of poor air quality. Dehydration can worsen the impact of air pollution while poor air quality can also increase dehydration. 

• Review and update policies regularly. Continuously review and update your air quality policies based on the latest scientific findings and recommendations from health authorities. Ensure your response plans are current and effective. For those with higher exposure to air quality issues, include developed evacuation plans if your organization may experience sustained exposure to unhealthy and dangerous levels without refuge. 

By incorporating these strategies into your planning and policies, you can effectively manage air quality issues and maintain a safe, enjoyable environment for people at your organization. 

To assist in tracking air quality and developing policies, here are some essential resources: 

• AirNow – Managed by the EPA, AirNow provides real-time air quality information and forecasts. 

• EPA – The EPA offers comprehensive guidelines and resources on air quality standards, health effects, and protective measures. 

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – The CDC provides health information and recommendations for protecting against air pollution. 

• National Weather Service (NWS) – The NWS offers air quality forecasts and alerts that can be integrated into your monitoring systems. 

• American Lung Association – Provides information on the health effects of air pollution and advocacy tools. 

• Local Air Quality Agencies – Many states and cities have local air quality management districts or agencies that provide specific regional data and recommendations. 

To find more tips and resources for organizations like yours, visit blog.churchmutual.com.