AQW 26978/17-22

Ms Paula Bradshaw
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 07/12/2021
Answered On Date: 16/12/2021
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Education for an update on what advice and guidance is being provided by the Education Authority to schools concerning the use of CO2 monitors, particularly regarding what to do when they indicate a problem.

Answer:

The Education Authority (EA) continues to be committed to working with my Department and school leaders to ensure that there is appropriate ventilation in schools, in line with the latest public health guidance and also advice from the Health and Safety Executive. The EA issued enhanced guidance to all schools on the 7 December 2021. This guidance provides detailed information in relation to ventilation and the use of CO2 monitors.

It should be noted that CO2 monitors do not detect Covid-19 but provide an indication of the efficacy of the ventilation. As outlined in the guidance, if ventilation is not sufficient the monitors will turn red. If this occurs, the guidance outlines steps that should be taken to improve ventilation. It is important that each teacher has an understanding of this guidance and the steps to be taken.

If the monitor remains red after these additional steps have been taken, the school are advised to contact the EA’s Maintenance Helpdesk for assistance.