Fellowes recommends the following IAQ-focused steps to strengthen business readiness: 

• Conduct an IAQ assessment to establish a baseline for current air quality conditions under typical occupancy and identify existing vulnerabilities in ventilation or filtration 
• Invest in commercial-grade air purifiers equipped with zone-based cleaning systems, real-time response automation and H13 True HEPA and activated carbon filters to capture ultrafine particulate matter, smoke, mold spores and more 
• Stock portable air purification units and replacement filters in emergency supply inventories, especially in high-risk regions 
• Implement humidity control and detection devices to mitigate mold growth in the case of a storm or flooding
• Install water filters capable of trapping particulate matter and microplastics from storm pollution 
• Train facilities teams on disaster IAQ protocols and best practices for pre, during, and post events

National Preparedness Month is an annual campaign by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reminding the public of the importance of preparing for an emergency or disaster. Throughout the month of September, DHS shares tips for assessing needs, creating a preparedness toolkit and developing a disaster response plan.  

“Disaster can strike without warning and the air inside your building can become just as hazardous as the visible damage,” said Jason Jones, director of air quality management at Fellowes. “Clean air isn’t a luxury; it’s critical to business continuity, employee safety and long-term resilience. By assessing the air in your building, investing in proper solutions and training teams to respond to hidden environmental threats year-round, recovery from disaster can be far less difficult and costly.” 

For more information on disaster recovery and IAQ preparedness, visit the Fellowes Air Quality Management blog. Learn more about National Preparedness Month and creating a disaster recovery plan here.