The results of air quality tests from the CSSHBO are now public for all their establishments

The results of air quality tests from the CSSHBO are now public for all their establishments

The Centre de services scolaire des Hauts-Bois-de-l’Outaouais (CSSHBO) carried out air quality tests in all of its establishments and the results are now available via their website.The results were previously communicated to the Ministry of Education as well as to all parents and staff.

“It is essential for us to ensure the quality of the air in our establishments. The health and safety of staff and students is our top priority, especially at this exceptional time. The tests were carried out according to ministerial directives, in order to adequately measure the level of carbon dioxide (CO2) in our premises. The results are very satisfactory, we can see that the measures taken are working well, ”said CSSHBO director Denis Rossignol.

The Ministry of Education considers CO2 concentrations below 1500 ppm acceptable. However, school service centers are encouraged to take action to aim for the 1000 ppm target. For each of the classes, the CO2 levels were measured three times during a class period, before the start of the class and half way through. A third sample was taken twenty minutes after the windows or door were opened, at the end of the course.

When concentrations exceed 1000 ppm, action must be taken promptly. When they reach 2000 ppm, action should be taken within a week. In fact, parents of students and school staff have been informed of the measures taken.

In order to ensure the best air quality in the classrooms, the staff members have been asked according to the CSSHBO to apply all the prescribed measures. In the case of establishments with mechanical ventilation, the School Service Center claims to have ensured its proper functioning and efficiency. In the case of establishments with natural ventilation, the opening of windows and doors is applied, as recommended, in order to ensure the renewal of air.

“All the health measures put in place to curb the spread of COVID-19 also help to ensure the health and safety of all,” said the CSSHBO.