Date: July 16, 2026
From: Kate Windsor, Executive Director, Safety, Security and Transportation
Subject: Air quality advisory and guidance
Environment Canada has issued a warning as wildfire smoke continues to affect air quality across southern Ontario.
At this time, there are no changes to indoor University operations. Classes, exams, research activities and other indoor campus operations will continue as scheduled.
The Safety Office is working directly with departments whose employees work outdoors to provide guidance on appropriate precautions and any necessary adjustments to outdoor work.
Instructors are encouraged to postpone any planned outdoor activities until air quality improves.
Air quality conditions can affect individuals differently, particularly those with asthma, other respiratory conditions or other health concerns. Community members are encouraged to monitor conditions and follow Environment Canada recommendations, including limiting outdoor activity when appropriate.
We recognize that air quality conditions may affect people differently, and some community members may have concerns related to air quality, health conditions or commuting. Employees and managers are encouraged to use existing workplace flexibility practices, where appropriate and operationally feasible, to support individual circumstances during the current air quality conditions. Students with health concerns are encouraged to use available University support resources and follow Environment Canada's health guidance.
Current conditions and health guidance are available on the Government of Canada’s Air Quality Health Index website.
We will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as necessary.
Kate Windsor
Executive Director, Safety, Security and Transportation
Safety Office