Wildfire Smoke / Air Quality
Smoke from wildfires in Northern California may contribute to poor air quality in the Bay Area during the wildfire season.
Regional wildfire smoke can affect local communities’ ambient air quality. Stanford University actively monitors the effects of wildfire smoke on the campus community.
Smoke can cause adverse health effects. For some people, conditions in the Bay Area become unpleasant rather than dangerous. However, people with heart or lung disease, individuals over the age of 65, pregnant women, children, and individuals with respiratory illnesses can be particularly sensitive to wildfire smoke and should take extra precautions to avoid exposure.
Employees with concerns about performing work due to the air quality should contact their supervisor. We encourage supervisors to consider the needs of employees and have discussions with employees about alternative work arrangements, if needed. Supervisors can contact Human Resources (HR) for guidance on accommodations and HR policies.
For questions related to wildfire smoke, contact Environmental Health & Safety at (650) 723-0448.
During a wildfire smoke event, will the campus community will be notified of specific actions via text and email through the AlertSU system and at emergency.stanford.edu.
Campus Resources
Additional Resources
- California Public Health Department: N95 Respirator FAQs
- US EPA AirNow “Fires and Your Health”
- EPA Indoor Air Quality
- Wildfire Smoke Factsheet: Protect Your Lungs from Wildfire Smoke or Ash