Introduction

A notable investigation initiated by a high school student has prompted Kingston Secondary School to schedule an immediate inspection of its heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system next week. This decision comes after a concerning article penned by Grade 12 student Hazel Taylor-Quick revealed that carbon dioxide levels in the school have surpassed safe limits.

Principal's Response

In an open letter to students, staff, and parents, Principal Darren Seymour acknowledged the growing concerns regarding air quality at Kingston Secondary School (KSS), particularly after the publication of Taylor-Quick's insightful piece titled "Bad Air: KSS’s Unsafe Atmosphere." The principal took the opportunity to assure the school community that the management is treating feedback about indoor air quality with utmost seriousness. "LDSB Facility Services will conduct a thorough inspection of the HVAC units and building automation system as a precaution," Seymour stated.

Investigative Efforts

Taylor-Quick’s article was influenced by a series of complaints she had been hearing from classmates about symptoms like shortness of breath and headaches. "All the time people complain about it. All my friends complain about it,” Taylor-Quick told the Whig-Standard. Even athletic students reported feeling winded after routine activities such as climbing stairs.

Research and Findings

Determined to investigate these reports, Taylor-Quick conducted thorough research on air quality and its implications on health. She discovered the vital role of air filtration and the detrimental effects of elevated carbon dioxide levels on cognitive functions and overall well-being.

CO2 Monitoring Results

Utilizing a CO2 monitor, she conducted tests over three days across different floors of the school. Alarmingly, results indicated carbon dioxide concentrations soared to 2,612 ppm on the third floor, with readings of 1,468 ppm on the second floor and 1,588 ppm on the first floor. Health Canada recommends a maximum indoor CO2 level of 1,000 ppm for safe air quality, indicating that the school's environment poses a significant health risk to its students.

Expert Opinion

Dr. Dick Zoutman, a professor emeritus at Queen’s University and an expert on infectious diseases, expressed his astonishment upon hearing about the test results, especially given that Kingston Secondary School is a newly constructed facility. "This is a brand-new school, built with the latest technology," he remarked. He highlighted that sustained exposure to high CO2 levels negatively impacts cognitive function, hampering students’ learning experiences.

Health Risks

Zoutman also pointed out that the elevated CO2 levels serve as a red flag for inadequate ventilation, potentially exacerbating the transmission of airborne illnesses such as COVID-19 and influenza. He emphasized the importance of maintaining proper air changes to ensure a healthy learning environment, which seems compromised at KSS.

Student's Reflection

Following the letter announcement, Taylor-Quick expressed her relief that her findings have sparked necessary attention and action. However, she took issue with the terminology used by Principal Seymour regarding the discomfort experienced by students, asserting that it is a matter of health and safety rather than mere discomfort. “It’s crucial that we distinguish between discomfort and health risks,” she added.

Conclusion

As the school prepares for a thorough inspection of its HVAC system, the lesson here is clear: sometimes it takes the courage of a student to shine a light on significant issues, prompting timely action that could safeguard the health and well-being of an entire school community. Stay tuned as this developing story unfolds, and let’s hope this inspires other students to take initiative in advocating for their health and safety!