Bite #8: Air Quality and Scent-Free Policies
Nova Scotia’s humid climate and aging buildings can make maintaining healthy air quality a challenge. Poor air quality from mold and chemicals have caused some of the worst workplace health crises in Canada, including Halifax West High School, and Camp Hill Medical Hospital in Halifax. In the 90’s, more than 700 hospital workers reported serious symptoms like trouble breathing, extreme fatigue, memory loss, and neuromuscular issues. Over 300 workers had to stop working for months or even years, and as of 2009, more than 100 were permanently disabled. Environmental illness is a general term for a variety of chronic health conditions that are caused by exposure to toxins or other environmental substances.
This example of Sick Building Syndrome shows how dangerous poor air quality can be in shared spaces. Many people lost their health and livelihoods. These lessons highlight the importance of taking proactive measures to maintain good air quality.
This example of Sick Building Syndrome shows how dangerous poor air quality can be in shared spaces. Many people lost their health and livelihoods. These lessons highlight the importance of taking proactive measures to maintain good air quality.
The Former Camp Hill Medical Centre, Robie St. Halifax, 1967
Setting The Stage
In a historic Halifax venue, the green room is in a basement with musty air and high humidity. A musician with asthma struggles to prepare for their performance due to poor ventilation and the use of scented cleaning products. This ultimately led to the cancellation of their show.
Reflection
What steps does your venue take to improve air quality and provide scent-free environments for artists and staff?
Actions
Improve Air Quality
Implement Scent-Free Policies
Adopt Best Practices for Historic Buildings
- Install portable HEPA filters in green rooms, rehearsal spaces, and dressing areas to reduce airborne allergens and pollutants.
- These measures also help reduce the spread of airborne viruses, such as COVID-19
- Maintain HVAC systems regularly by replacing filters and repairing ventilation issues.
- Control indoor humidity levels to prevent mold growth and address damp areas or leaks promptly.
Implement Scent-Free Policies
- Use fragrance-free cleaning products, soaps, and hand sanitizers throughout the venue.
- Designate scent-free zones backstage and mark them with clear signage.
- Educate and Inform
- Communicate scent-free policies and air quality practices in pre-arrival materials for artists and staff.
- Train staff on the importance of air quality and scent-free policies
- Develop protocols for sudden air quality issues, such as wildfire smoke, leaking roofs, or mold outbreaks.
Adopt Best Practices for Historic Buildings
- Conduct a building assessment to identify flaws or maintenance needs.
- Prioritize repairs that address water damage, leaks, or other contributors to unhealthy indoor air.
- Upgrade older ventilation systems to meet modern air quality standards.
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