Policy 003
Approved 8-10-16
Indoor Air Quality Policy
The academic success of a student can be directly linked to his or her health. For this reason, it is imperative that the school districtinsures the well being and safety of all its students to support a positive learning environment. In order to create a safer learning environment for students as well as a safer work environment for staff, the school district strives to protect the indoor air quality of its campus. Strong scents and fragrances, including cleaning supplies, can contribute to poor indoor air quality that can be unhealthy to students and school staff .
Many people experience unpleasant physical effects from scented products. A growing number of people suffer more severe reactions to these types of products and chemicals. This condition is known as multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS) and involves people who have developed an acute sensitivity to various chemicals in the environment. People with MCS experience a range of debilitating physical reactions, some even life-threatening, to chemicals used in a variety of scented materials, including fragrances and chemical products.
Some of the adverse affects of exposure to scented products may include, but are not limited to the following:
- Headaches or Nausea
- Weakness or Malaise
- Loss of Appetite
- Skin Irritation or Numbness
- Upper Respiratory Symptoms
- Shortness of Breath
Allergic and asthmatic persons, as well as those with other conditions, report that certain odors or fragrances, even in small amounts, can trigger a reaction.
All teachers, students, staff and visitors are asked not to bring cleaning products, deodorizers or other personal care products into the facilities unless they are identified as fragrance free. In addition, whenever possible, cleaning products with strong scents will only be used during off-peak hours. If a person is affected by a specific scent or other indoor air quality issue, the district will make every effort to eliminate or minimize the concern.
Under this policy, the school district also requests that all students and staff refrain from, or minimize, the use of perfumes, colognes and other strong fragrances, and use unscented or mildly scented personal care products in order to promote a high standard of indoor air quality. This request is included in notices and on displayed signage throughout the campus. Fragrance products include, but are not limited to: hand sanitizers, cologne, perfume, lotions, deodorants, hair products, candles, and air fresheners.
Any violations of this policy should be referred to administration. Persons in violation of the policy will be reminded of the policy and be asked to refrain from using the product in the future. Intentional or chronic violations will be considered a disciplinary issue and will be dealt with in an appropriate manner.
