Cal State LA monitors regional air quality to provide guidance and information on campus activities and operations. The university evaluates air quality conditions using current, and forecasted data, as well as other atmospheric variables such as wind and temperature. Air quality information can vary significantly depending on the location of sensors, the calculation methods used, and specific microclimates. Cal State LA primarily relies on data from AirNow, a trusted source operated by the Environmental Protection Agency. While AirNow provides reliable air quality data, its sensors closest to the campus are located in nearby areas, such as downtown Los Angeles and Pasadena, which may reflect conditions slightly different from those on campus. AirNow offers detailed insights into air quality index calculations and provides health-related recommendations for various air quality levels. The campus community is encouraged to use this resource to stay informed and make decisions to protect their well-being during periods of poor air quality.
Air Quality Index Colors and Their Meaning
The air quality index, or AQI, is a calculation based on a given air pollutant and its concentration over a period of time. Considered pollutants include ground-level ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide; AQI is calculated from the highest pollutant concentration. The index ranges from 0 to 500 with bands for: good, moderate, unhealthy for sensitive groups, unhealthy, very unhealthy, and hazardous.
| Color | Category | Air Quality Index (AQI) Range | Health Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green | Good | 0-50 | Air quality is considered satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk. |
| Yellow | Moderate | 51-100 | Air quality is acceptable; however, some pollutants may affect sensitive individuals. |
| Orange | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups | 101-150 | Members of sensitive groups may experience health effects. General public is unlikely to be affected. |
| Red | Unhealthy | 151-200 | Everyone may begin to experience health effects; members of sensitive groups may experience more serious effects. |
| Purple | Very Unhealthy | 201-300 | Health alert: everyone may experience more serious health effects. |
| Maroon | Hazardous | 301-500 | Health warning of emergency conditions. Entire population is more likely to be affected. |
Wildfire Smoke
Wildfire smoke contains many air pollutants, including particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and ozone that are known to cause health issues. Particulate matter can trigger respiratory problems and asthma. Those most at risk include the elderly, pregnant women and people with chronic respiratory and heart conditions. Children are also at a higher risk as they breathe more air per pound of body weight than adults, and wildfire smoke can irritate their still-developing lungs.
When a wildfire is threatening your area, follow these guidelines:
- Monitor local area radio or television states for the latest wildfire information.
- Be prepared to evacuate on a moment's notice.
- Make sure you have an emergency kit, complete with medications, copies of prescriptions and medical supplies.
- Locate nearby shelters, including ones that take pets.
- Arrange to stay with family or friends outside the threatened area.
Indoor Air Quality
Recent indoor air quality monitoring was conducted at several campus buildings. The assessment included measuring particulate concentrations and analyzing air samples to identify combustion-related pollutants. This effort provided detailed insights into indoor air quality across the monitored spaces.
Air quality monitoring data and detailed sampling reports are available for the following buildings:
- Arnold Bing Child Development Center
- Corporation Yard
- Golden Eagle
- La Kretz Hall
- Luckman Theatre
- Public Safety
- Rosser Hall
- Student Housing South Village
- Student Housing Phase 1
- Student Housing Phase 2
- Student Services Building
- Student Union
Indoor Air Quality Readings
Air quality readings were conducted across various campus locations using the Temtop M2000 to measure PM2.5 concentrations. The recorded levels ranged between 0.1 µg/m³ and 2.650 µg/m³, varying by location.
The results were reviewed against applicable regulatory thresholds, such as Cal/OSHA standards, which mandate additional protective measures if the AQI for PM2.5 exceeds 151 (equivalent to PM2.5 levels above 55.5 µg/m³). Based on the measurements taken, no additional controls were required at this time.
These readings provide a snapshot of indoor air quality across campus locations during the monitoring period. Regular monitoring helps ensure alignment with regulatory requirements and supports informed decision-making regarding air quality management. See results below:
Water Quality
In addition to air quality testing, water quality tests were performed to ensure the safety and quality of campus water supplies. Results confirmed that water quality meets safety standards.
Click here to view water quality test results.