UMass Boston

UMass Boston is committed to maintaining safe and healthy indoor air quality environments for the campus community. UMass Boston's Facilities Department manages the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in campus buildings with the goal of meeting or exceeding industry performance standards regarding ventilation, temperature, relative humidity, air quality, odor, noise, and lighting.

OEHS works collaboratively with Facilities to help identify, remediate, and maintain acceptable indoor air quality parameters in compliance with national standards established by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

IAQ does not include thermal comfort unless conditions place occupants at risk from heat or cold stress. IAQ also does not include the presence of occasional odors. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Response Events are situations that can result in the development of an IAQ hazard and require prompt correction by Facilities and notification of OEHS. IAQ response events include large (>15 gallons) water releases from any source (potable, sewage, roof leak, equipment release); water retention outside the drain pans in air handlers; retention of water, leaves or other debris at outside air intakes; the use of volatile or hazardous materials in the renovation or maintenance of a building

If you have questions or concerns with the indoor air quality within buildings on campus, please contact Facilities at 617.287.5450 or facilities@umb.edu.  When required, a member of OEHS will be in contact to discuss the concern and review the space.