Air quality activities guide
As wildfire season overlays with the start of the school year, it’s a good time to have staff review the DOH’s revised Guidelines for School Activities Based on Air Quality.
Resources on the DOH’s Smoke from Fires Tool Kit Page help plan for monitoring indoor and outdoor air quality, sourcing low-cost sensors and markers for canceling or modifying activities whenever wildfire smoke significantly impacts air quality levels.
Also, schools with mechanical ventilation systems can learn more about Improving Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality.
Supply Lists
Commonly used supplies contain chemicals that can trigger asthma and allergies. These include:
- Wipes (cleaning, disinfectant, or baby wipes)
- Cleaners
- Hand sanitizers
- Dry-erase markers
- Markers, including scented and permanent markers
DOH’s Supply List Guidance for Healthy Classrooms (PDF) offers product recommendations that help provide healthier classrooms.
Fragrances should be avoided, and students cannot use products containing hazardous chemicals. The DOH recommends hand washing and fresh air over chemical products or oils.
Check out Classroom Cleaning Tips for Teachers and the School Environmental Health & Safety website for guidance on:
- Air pollution and school activities, including wildfire smoke events
- Healthy air quality in schools
- Essential oils
- Art hazards
- 3D printers
Email questions to sc*******@do*.gov
Mandatory reporting of child abuse or neglect
School personnel, counselors, and nurses are required by law to report suspected or witnessed situations of child abuse or neglect.
Here are some training resources for your school’s staff:
- WA State mandatory reporter video https://vimeo.com/129462208
- Vector Solutions online courses
- Compass – Child Abuse Prevention for WA State
