Attune, the only customizable indoor air quality monitoring solution in America, is taking a proactive approach to protecting students and staff from the harmful effects of wildfire smoke and other air quality threats. The company has partnered with Bellingham Public Schools in Bellingham, Washington, to install its indoor air quality (IAQ) and outdoor air quality (OAQ) monitoring systems in all of the district’s schools.
This partnership is made possible by a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Wildfire Smoke Preparedness in Community Buildings program. The program is designed to equip communities with the resources necessary to prepare for and mitigate the risks associated with wildfire smoke. Bellingham Public Schools will use the EPA funding to purchase and install Attune’s cutting-edge IAQ and OAQ sensors. These sensors will provide real-time data on air quality conditions within and outside of school buildings.
Attune’s devices continuously monitor airborne pollutant levels, including carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds, and particulate matter, 24/7. This comprehensive data allows school officials to stay informed about the air quality within their facilities. They can then make informed decisions to protect the health and well-being of students and staff, such as adjusting building ventilation systems or recommending that students and staff remain indoors during periods of poor air quality.
The importance of real-time air quality monitoring cannot be overstated. Wildfire smoke plumes can have severe health consequences, ranging from eye and throat irritation to more serious issues like asthma attacks, cardiovascular events, and even premature death. While staying indoors is often recommended during severe smoke events, outdoor smoke can infiltrate buildings and deteriorate indoor air quality.
“Ensuring the safety of our students and staff is our top priority,” said Gretchen Pflueger, Bellingham Public Schools’ Grant Writer and Special Projects Manager. “We recognize the importance of real-time data for making safety decisions about air quality due to wildfire smoke.”
Attune’s technology has already been implemented in over 2,000 schools across the nation, demonstrating its effectiveness in enhancing indoor air quality and protecting the health of school communities. With its advanced sensor-based platform, Attune goes beyond simply monitoring air quality. It detects critical building conditions that can lead to a variety of issues, including air quality problems, energy consumption inefficiencies, potential water leaks, and equipment malfunctions. This comprehensive approach helps to minimize threats that can negatively impact occupant well-being.
As climate events become more prevalent, the need for effective indoor air quality monitoring solutions like Attune will only grow. By partnering with schools and other organizations, Attune is playing a crucial role in safeguarding the health and safety of communities across the country.
