Embedded Files
It is very important that we continue to keep in mind that ventilation is only one tool in the fight against Covid 19. Masking, PPE, hand hygiene, vaccination, distancing, screening, staying home if you are ill, are all equally important. It is with a combination of all of these interventions that keeps us all safe.
Based on the advice of the Ministry of Education and local public health officials, we have modified cleaning priorities, making upgrades to our HVAC systems and focusing on preventative maintenance measures. To meet new health and safety guidelines, and as per existing practice, BGCDSB continues to inspect the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) units throughout the board. The board reports that retrofits were made to support higher levels of filtration and continuous monitoring of building automation systems.
It is important to note that in all of our buildings we have mechanical ventilation. Therefore, For schools with full mechanical ventilation, school boards are expected to:
have all ventilation systems inspected and in good working order prior to the start of the school year (completed)
use the highest-grade filters possible, preferably MERV 13 filters (complete as available, with more on order)
undertake frequent filter changes through the school year (is already part of our existing protocol)
operate ventilation systems 2 hours or more before and after school occupancy (is already part of existing protocol)
calibrate HVAC systems for maximum air flow and increased fresh air intake (completed)
For schools with mechanical ventilation, school boards are expected to place standalone high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter units in all JK/SK classrooms. This is in process with the Ministry of Education.
As a Catholic Education system we commend our staff for the continued hard work through the stress of the pandemic. The pride in the work being done is a demonstration of the community spirit and the focus of the Board to keep people safe and prepare for the safe return of our students and staff in the fall.
Page updated
Report abuse