Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 November 2021
423. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for Education the guidance for teachers when CO2 monitors in classrooms are red particularly when it is raining and in circumstances in which there is no assembly hall in the primary school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54282/21]
View answerThe Department’s ventilation guidance for schools is very clear and practical on the steps to be taken by all schools to manage ventilation levels.
CO2 levels provide a guide on air quality. Monitoring CO2 levels will help schools to identify poorly ventilated rooms.
Improving ventilation is the answer to addressing a poorly ventilated room.
The digital readings and multi-colour display on the CO2 monitors (green, yellow, orange and red) guide schools on the need to increase ventilation from once it goes above the green display of 800 CO2 parts per million. The monitors are portable and very easy to use.
The Expert Group noted that the Department has very good ventilation guidance for schools.
Managing ventilation is not an exact science. It affects all aspects of society – our homes, schools, colleges, workplaces, hospitality sector etc.
The following is the multi-colour display on the monitors:
Green: less than 800 CO2 parts per million
Yellow: between 800 and 1,150 CO2 parts per million
Orange: between 1,150 and 1,500 CO2 parts per million
Red: greater than 1,500 CO2 parts per million
Schools that identify inadequate ventilation in a room they should consult with their architect/ engineer and can utilise their minor works grant (for minor improvements) or apply for emergency works grant assistance to address ventilation enhancements on a permanent basis.
If an individual school has particular difficulties in managing ventilation my Department is available to guide and support it as required on the appropriate strategy to address same.
