Air pollution caused by forest fires: Camfil forms IAQ task force to reduce dangers for people and buildings

How can it be prevented that pollutant-laden outdoor air affects the air quality inside our buildings?

Camfil has announced the launch of a global information campaign to raise awareness about the impact of air pollution caused by wildfires on indoor air quality. The filter manufacturer aims to leverage its thematic expertise to serve the public, helping to mitigate the negative effects on people's health and building safety. To keep indoor air safe despite high outdoor pollutant levels, Camfil offers quick-to-implement practical tips and expert support for limiting smoke exposure.

Making expertise accessible on a global issue

Fire knows no borders, as recent devastating wildfires in Canada have once again demonstrated. Scientists have coined the term "smoke wave" in connection with these fires, referring to periods of high fine dust pollution lasting two or more days. These waves of air pollution will continue to occur for decades and will remain a significant part of global ecological challenges.

Over 400 wildfires are burning in Canada, leading to health warnings for more than 110 million people in the USA on some days. The wind carried smoke from Canada all the way to New York, which promptly ranked second on the list of cities with the dirtiest air on June 7, 2023, only surpassed by the notorious "leader" New Delhi.

Here in Germany, wildfires during the hot season have become a sad routine. The largest wildfire in Brandenburg, which raged across several hundred football fields south of Berlin, has been brought under control after two weeks of continuous firefighting efforts. However, a real easing of the situation is only expected after the end of the wildfire season in autumn.

In response to the spreading air pollution caused by wildfires, Camfil has established a task force of international experts to support customers and the general public with advice and assistance in combating indoor pollutant levels — because many people spend up to 90% of their time indoors, where contaminated air can have a particularly strong impact on health.

IAQ TASKFORCE – INFORMATION AND SERVICES IN 35 COUNTRIES

Camfil provides expertise and knowledge resources worldwide

Camfil experts recommend a combination of activated carbon filters, which combat odors and gaseous pollutants, and HEPA filters for fine dust of particle size PM2.5, to minimize the threat posed by smoke from Canadian wildfires. For industry-specific solutions and best practices, a suitable contact person can be easily found via the contact search on the company's website.

International online information:

– Camfil will regularly post information and practical know-how throughout the month on its international LinkedIn company page.
– Jon Holmes from Camfil Canada discusses air pollution in Canada and which filter technologies can be used (YouTube video)
– What can you do to be better prepared for air pollution caused by wildfires? (Blog post)
– What types of air filters are available, and what do Camfil experts from the USA recommend to protect people and property from wildfire smoke? (YouTube video)

CURRENT INITIATIVE ON INDOOR AIR QUALITY

Free training program

Last year, Camfil launched the "Chief Airgonomics Officer" initiative, urging companies to appoint responsible persons for workplace air quality. Camfil has implemented numerous measures worldwide as part of this campaign to create a healthy working environment, so customers can now draw on the experience of over 100 Airgonomics Officers at 35 international locations. For anyone interested in engaging with their company's air quality topic, Camfil offers the free online training program "Airgonomics 101." Registration is available at any time via this link.

The Chief Airgonomics Officer network on LinkedIn

The Chief Airgonomics Officer initiative maintains its own LinkedIn group, where responsible Airgonomics Officers from around the world are connected. Volunteer expert leaders from each region are ready to share their knowledge on indoor air quality, including Jayant Kaushal (Asia-Pacific), Steve Devine (North, Central, and South America), Marco Fiori (Europe, Middle East, Africa), and Marc van Den Eynde (Camfil Power Systems), as well as Alain Bérard, Global President Marketing & Sales at Camfil and the world's first Chief Airgonomics Officer. The LinkedIn group is non-public but generally open to all interested in the topic.

Email support

Questions about indoor air quality in general and the ongoing campaign in particular can be directed to the Chief Airgonomics Officer support desk via the email address info@chiefairgonomicsofficer.com.

The Chief Airgonomics Officer website

On the website of the Chief Airgonomics Officer initiative, you will find free eBooks and many other resources related to indoor air quality. The website is available in multiple languages.