Commenting on the government’s plan to provide schools and
colleges with carbon dioxide monitors, Geoff Barton, General
Secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said:
“We have repeatedly called for government investment in
ventilation systems for schools and colleges to help tackle the
risk of coronavirus transmission, and we are therefore pleased
that there is finally a plan to do something practical about this
issue by providing carbon dioxide monitors. In truth, this
equipment should have been in place ready for the start of the
autumn term, and arguably a lot earlier in the crisis, but it is
a case of better late than never.
“Government guidance to schools and colleges on reducing the risk
of coronavirus transmission highlights the importance of keeping
spaces well ventilated, but doesn’t go much further than
recommending that windows should be opened to improve natural
ventilation. This is challenging in the depths of a British
winter and does not make for an environment which is conducive to
learning. Our understanding is that carbon dioxide monitors will
indicate when spaces need ventilating thereby reducing the need
to keep windows open all the time.
“This is an important and reassuring step in the right direction.
Now we reiterate our call for the government to ensure that
high-quality ventilation equipment is made available to schools
and colleges where it is needed as soon as possible.”
