Aspen Cycling Club – Air Quality Policy (AQI > 100)

1. Purpose

To safeguard the health of participants, volunteers, and spectators by guiding decisions regarding event modification, postponement, or cancellation when outdoor air quality is poor.

2. Monitoring Protocol

• Regularly monitor AQI at least 5 hours before an event using reliable sources like Purpleair.com and Airnow.gov.

• Assign a staff member (e.g., Race Director, Managing Director) to be responsible for AQI tracking and communications.

3. AQI-Based Actions

Implement the following thresholds based on AQI levels:

4. Decision-Making Timeline

    • 5 hours before: First AQI check to assess potential risk.

    • 2 hours before: Reassess AQI and issue a Final (go/no-go) decision recommendation to membership.

5. Communication Strategy

• Use email, text alerts, social media, and on-site announcements to inform participants of any changes.

• Prepare template messaging for “AQI Elevated,” “Shortened Event,” and “Event Canceled” scenarios.

• Provide clear reasoning and next steps—whether an adjustment or cancellation is underway.

AQI Range Action

0–99 (Moderate or Better) Events proceed as scheduled with standard precautions.

100–200 (Unhealthy) Alert participants of event postponement/ cancellation.

201+ (Very Unhealthy/Hazardous)

Mandatory cycling event cancellation.

6. Post-Event Review

Conduct a brief after-action review for any event modified or canceled due to AQI, capturing:

• AQI data and timeline

• Decision points and communications

• Feedback from participants and volunteers

• Recommendations for future policy updates