Environmental Well Being
We have programs in place to protect the on-going health of the beautiful Boulder environment. Many of these programs overlap with Projects and Construction support. For example, monitoring water that might run off campus and into Boulder creek often becomes more important in consideration of nearby construction projects. We make sure that all work is done in a way that keeps the Boulder valley safe.
Reducing Environmental Dangers
Safety is an everyday concern for workers and the campus community. EH&S has several programs set up to actively protect you and the beautiful Boulder landscape.
Some areas we monitor and support:
- Asbestos and Lead Based Paint
- Occupational Noise Exposure
- Storm Water Protection
- Waste Water Protection
- Water Intrusion and Flooding
- Indoor Air Quality & Odor
- Battery Collection
- Household Hazardous Waste
- Radon
- Asbestos Management
EH&S uses an online asbestos material management system (MMS) to track and manage asbestos containing materials (ACM) on campus. This system is a comprehensive solution to building-wide asbestos management. We work with project managers, industrial hygiene firms, and abatement contractors to track the location and removal of ACM. Many other roles on campus find this database useful in helping manage ACM.
Indoor Air Quality
The quality of indoor air can be affected by a variety of factors and result in health related symptoms or general discomfort. Health effects may include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Immediate effects are usually short-term and treatable.
Water Intrusion & Flood
When water intrusion or flooding occur in campus buildings, we ensure building occupants’ safety by investigating potential mold or mold related air quality situations. We’ve compiled the documentation below to help answer common questions about mold and air quality.
Water Quality
Both the water that leaves campus through storm drains, and the wastewater sent off campus for treatment, are subject to regulations from local and state regulatory agencies. Additional information can be found in the following resource documents.
Radon
Radon levels have been tested throughout the CU Boulder campus. For information, contact the Radiation Safety unit.
Occupational/Worker Safety
EH&S provides occupational training to better facilitate a safe work environment, as well as meet various regulations. Visit the Training page to find occupational offerings.
Confined Space Entry
Confined spaces have the potential to be immediately dangerous to life and health due to hazardous atmospheres, the possibility of engulfment or entrapment, or other safety hazards. Examples of confined spaces at CU Boulder include, but are not limited to: steam tunnels, electrical vaults, manholes, sumps, crawl spaces, attics, tanks, air plenums, and certain mechanical rooms.
Respiratory Protection Program
It is the policy of the University of Colorado at Boulder, that any employee who is assigned a respirator as part of their job duties, must obtain supervisory and medical approvals, and be properly trained and fit-tested. Persons who are involved in the use or issuance of respirators, are responsible for following the Respiratory Protective Equipment program procedures detailed below.
Before respirators can be worn, employees must be enrolled in the University of Colorado Respiratory Protection program. All CU Boulder employees enrolled in the University’s O&M Program and Respiratory Protection Program must come in to have a fit test conducted prior to respirator use. Additional fit tests are required annually at a minimum and on an as needed basis if required. We provide respiratory protection training and fit testing at no cost to the employee or department.