Common concerns and fixes:
Temperature and Humidity Issues
If the problem is a comfort issue related to temperature and/or humidity, contact the Department of Facilities for assistance. Please visit the Facilities Adjusting the Indoor Climate website for information on temperature concerns and to find a link to the Facilities Work Request site.
Smoking
Smoking is not allowed in MIT Buildings (with few exceptions) per MIT Policy. It is not allowed near doorways or air intakes. This also applies to electronic cigarettes or other nicotine delivery methods as it may contribute to poor IAQ.
Foul Food Odor
Foul food can be a source of the strong odor. There are many possible sources including trash barrels, a forgotten lunch in a desk, or even refrigerators. It is suggested to schedule a regular refrigerator and kitchen cleaning times. If the odor is coming from trash or recycling, place a request through Atlas to reach Custodial Services and to have trash removed.
Odor from Pests
Common at the start of winter as animals come inside. Place a request through Atlas to reach Pest Control and have the pest removed and the area cleaned.
Sewer Gas Odors
Sewage gas odors can enter occupied spaces through plumbing with dried gas traps. Contact Facilities to seal drains that are no longer used. Add water to drains monthly to keep traps full.
Diesel or Vehicle Exhaust Odors
Engines idling near air intakes or open windows can introduce exhaust fumes into buildings. Contact your Building Manager to have vehicles moved and have signs posted.
Natural Gas Odor
Contact Facilities and EHS to check for leaks.
Outdoor and Indoor Construction Activities
Odors from painting, welding, construction vehicles. Call EHS who will work with the Facilities Project Manager to control odors. You may also call the Project Manager.
Mold Odors
Look for signs of water damage or mold growth. Contact EHS for an evaluation.
Chemical and Other Odors
Contact EHS for an evaluation.
For an investigation of an indoor air quality (or odor) concern, contact the EHS Office at our main number (617) 452-3477 or email environment@mit.edu.
Common concerns and fixes:
Temperature and Humidity Issues
If the problem is a comfort issue related to temperature and/or humidity, contact the Department of Facilities for assistance. Please visit the Facilities Adjusting the Indoor Climate website for information on temperature concerns and to find a link to the Facilities Work Request site.
Smoking
Smoking is not allowed in MIT Buildings (with few exceptions) per MIT Policy. It is not allowed near doorways or air intakes. This also applies to electronic cigarettes or other nicotine delivery methods as it may contribute to poor IAQ.
Foul Food Odor
Foul food can be a source of the strong odor. There are many possible sources including trash barrels, a forgotten lunch in a desk, or even refrigerators. It is suggested to schedule a regular refrigerator and kitchen cleaning times. If the odor is coming from trash or recycling, place a request through Atlas to reach Custodial Services and to have trash removed.
Odor from Pests
Common at the start of winter as animals come inside. Place a request through Atlas to reach Pest Control and have the pest removed and the area cleaned.
Sewer Gas Odors
Sewage gas odors can enter occupied spaces through plumbing with dried gas traps. Contact Facilities to seal drains that are no longer used. Add water to drains monthly to keep traps full.
Diesel or Vehicle Exhaust Odors
Engines idling near air intakes or open windows can introduce exhaust fumes into buildings. Contact your Building Manager to have vehicles moved and have signs posted.
Natural Gas Odor
Contact Facilities and EHS to check for leaks.
Outdoor and Indoor Construction Activities
Odors from painting, welding, construction vehicles. Call EHS who will work with the Facilities Project Manager to control odors. You may also call the Project Manager.
Mold Odors
Look for signs of water damage or mold growth. Contact EHS for an evaluation.
Chemical and Other Odors
Contact EHS for an evaluation.
For an investigation of an indoor air quality (or odor) concern, contact the EHS Office at our main number (617) 452-3477 or email environment@mit.edu.