We have received updated from the the Superintendent of Facilities.
information embedded below link https://altavistaps.ocdsb.ca/news/what_s_new/School_closed_on_november_21st_and_november_22nd
Email titled:
Update: Alta Vista Public School – Testing and Repairs Nov. 22, 2019 at 2:46 pm
Dear Alta Vista families,
On Wednesday, spore trap mould testing was done at Alta Vista Public School. This provided information about the current state and will help to inform our work at the end of the remediation stage. This work is guided by Canadian Construction guidelines which provide:
Air sampling may be performed upon completion of mould remediation activities, to confirm that an acceptable condition has been met before the containment barriers are removed. The most common air sampling method is spore trap or non-viable air sampling due to the advantage of immediate analysis.
The results of the spore trap mould testing, conducted on Wednesday included seventeen air samples, collected in locations throughout the school.
While some level of mould spores are common to any building, there were three areas in the school with elevated levels. Two of the three areas were inside the section of the building that was sealed off Monday morning, the third area was the hallway immediately adjacent the sectioned off area. The three areas are identified as:
- The music room (Room 114), where much of the repair work is currently taking place. (Sample AS-01)
- The corridor at the “T” junction outside the closed Girls Washroom. (Sample AS-03)
- The corridor out front of Room #122, down the hall from where AS-03 was collected. According to the consultant, the elevated levels in the corridor are likely from air movement from the area where the steam pipe leak was. (Sample AS-10)
The full report is available here and to facilitate use, the readings have been added to the floor plans (First Floor, Second Floor) which show samples were taken.
While repair crews are working to repair the leak, dehumidifiers and air scrubbers have been installed throughout the school to help reduce moisture and clean the air. An additional spore trap mould test will be conducted as part of our work. We will share the results of that information with the school community once the information is available.
The Ontario Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development has a resource document regarding Mould in Workplace Buildings which might be helpful to parents. Should your child have any symptoms related to mould, I would encourage you to speak with your doctor.
There have been some questions about asbestos. Prior to this incident, the school already had detailed records in place of where asbestos could be found in the building. When it is left undisturbed, asbestos containing materials do not pose a danger. If damaged or disturbed during repair work, asbestos fibres can pose a serious health risk. The repair work is being conducted by qualified and experienced personnel, in accordance with Ontario regulations, to prevent the spread of asbestos fibres or exposure to repair crews, students and staff. This includes double-sealing rooms where repairs are taking place with plastic, and ensuring air is properly ventilated to prevent exposure during repairs. Any debris is promptly sealed and discarded.
Again, we will be sending you a further update by Sunday evening at 7 p.m. to confirm whether the school will be open on Monday.
Thank you again for your patience and understanding.
Mike Carson
Chief Financial Officer and Superintendent of Facilities
