Response To Harvard University President's Heating Guidelines

Thank you for revealing what Harvard's heating guidelines are. But there are state laws which establish heating requirements for MA landlords including The President and Fellows of Harvard College. Over the past 17 years I've been a tenant of Harvard's President I encountered numerous occasions when there was no heat often on weekends and at night. A call to your delightful emergency phone often gets a response of "Why are you the only one?" It appears that many of
your tenants are unable or unwilling to speak out about lack of heat. When I complain I get harassed, humiliated and ridiculed by employees of the landlord. That is also a violation of US laws. I am aware, very well aware that for Harvard's President and in Cambridge, laws are optional. Just want you to know that I enjoy reading about your guidelines when they conflict with state and US  laws. It is more sources of humor in this charming city and University. Thanks again for the laughs.

[Memo sent on Thursday November 29, 2012]
HARVARD UNIVERSITY OFFICE FOR SUSTAINABILITY

HARVARD UNIVERSITY TEMPERATURE POLICY


OBJECTIVE:
The Harvard University Temperature policy provides a framework to assist building managers and occupants in achieving a healthy, productive, and safe working environment while reducing energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions to the lowest practicable level.

POLICY:
During the winter heating season (October 16-May 14), occupied spaces will be heated to 68-71 F; each School or Department will determine their specific targets. During the summer cooling season (May 15- October 15),
occupied spaces will be cooled to 74-76¿ (where air conditioning equipment currently exists); each School of Department will determine their specific targets. Buildings with stringent humidity requirements may operate below this range. Occupants are also reminded that personal space heaters or heating or cooling devices may present a safety risk and are prohibited from use unless provided by the building manager.

Notes:
These space temperature ranges are based on established standards for human comfort, productivity and safety. Harvard building occupants will be made aware of the specific space temperature targets and feedback systems in place in their buildings. Occupants are encouraged to work with local building management staff to achieve acceptable temperature, humidity and ventilation levels. Maximum comfort and efficiency will be achieved when occupants and building managers actively adapt to building conditions through modification of air flow, sunlight, and apparel choices, among other comfort factors. Actual spaces temperatures may vary across Harvard's building due to wide range of space types and building control systems on campus.

Harvard will periodically evaluate this temperature policy based on improvements to building systems; advances in occupant comfort and productivity research; and feedback from occupants.

We look forward to working with building occupants to create a comfortable and energy-conserving environment.