Board ventilation strategy
School boards are optimizing air quality in schools through improved ventilation and filtration. Implemented measures are dependent on the type of ventilation and feasibility within the context of school facilities and related building systems.
Measures to help reduce transmission risk in indoor settings
Ventilation: Increasing the flow of outdoor/fresh air for diluting the concentration of any infectious particles.
Filtration: Involves the use of different types of fibrous media designed to remove particles from the airstream.
School board ventilation strategy
- Air filtration units have been installed in all teaching and office spaces with only natural or exhaust ventilation.
- Forced air ventilation systems in all schools operate from 4:30 am until 5:30 pm to ensure buildings are flushed out prior to the start of school. MERV 13 filters are being used in all systems with regular filter changes.
- Outside air has been maximized in all forced air ventilation unites while ensuring occupant comfort.
- All schools with natural or exhaust ventilation have HEPA air purifier units in all occupied spaces.
| 2020-21/2021-22 School Years | Final Numbers |
|---|---|
| Ventilation funding* | $27,292,275 |
| Ventilation projects completed | 61 |
| Schools receiving an investment, which is of total schools in the board. | 47 (67%) |
| 2022-2023 School Year | Planned Numbers |
|---|---|
| Planned Ventilation Projects | $2,600,000.00 |
| Planned or In Progress Ventilation Projects | 5 |
| Schools receiving an investment, which is of total schools in the board | 5 (7%) |
Standalone HEPA filter unites deployed: 1,116
*This includes spending from dedicated ventilation programs, federal-provincial funding, provincial renewal funding and supplemental funding from other board sources.