Policy 101.3 : Warm Weather Policy

        U N I V E R S I T Y   O F   S O U T H E R N   M A I N E


POLICY#:  101.3
SUBJECT:  WARM WEATHER POLICY
APPLIES TO:  ALL EMPLOYEES
ISSUED BY:  OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
EFFECTIVE DATE:  05/25/83
REVIEW/REVISION DATE:  10/01/92



 I.  Introduction

      The functions, the type of facilities, and even the
location within a building have a bearing on the working
conditions of a specific area.  Some areas can function
adequately without air-conditioning, some areas can utilize fans
instead of air-conditioning, and some areas are adequate with
minor adjustments.  The University will take reasonable steps to
maintain temperatures between 65 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit in
indoor office areas.

II.  Use of Air-Conditioners

  A.  Use Of Current Air-Conditioners

      Managers/supervisors are asked to carefully consider and
monitor the usage of air conditioners.  It is not necessary to
use them each day or every working hour of each day.  Units
should not be used until room temperatures reach 80 degrees.

  B.  Purchase of New, Additional Air-Conditioners

      Purchase of new equipment must be deemed essential before
any additional area obtains air-conditioning.  Prior to the
decision to purchase an air-conditioner the appropriate Executive
Officer will ask the Director of the Department of Facilities
Management for a technical evaluation of the specific area.

  C.  Criteria For Evaluating Need For Air Conditioners

      1.  Building Type - residence house, multi-story brick, or
          concrete building, age, etc.

      2.  Number of people occupying space in question.

      3.  Frequency of problem - what is the historic trend of
          the space in question?  Is this a one-time occurrence
          or does the space overheat frequently?

      4.  Alternatives - what alternative methods can be used to
          cool a space, i.e., block out the sun, if this is the
          cause of the problem, by utilizing shades or drapes;

          purchase a fan in lieu of an air-conditioner; install
          screens on windows so windows can be opened, etc.

III.  Administrative Leave/Early Release

   Although it will be unusual to declare an administrative leave
due to warm weather conditions, in the event this is warranted
for employees in particular buildings or other areas of the
campus, the decision will only be made by the President or the
appropriate Administrator for his/her respective area.  Employees
with work assignments in buildings or areas that are not affected
by the declaration of administrative leave will not be eligible
for such leave.  Unless otherwise specified, a declaration of an
administrative leave will be applicable only to employees at work
at the time of the declaration and does not apply to any
employees on other work schedules.

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