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Last Updated: Jul 2nd, 2008 - 21:15:22 |
(NUI) - Are your children coming home from school feeling tired, suffering from headaches or consistently getting sick? As a parent, you should know these symptoms may be related to the quality of their school environment.
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air quality is important for health, economic and legal reasons, and studies have shown that poor indoor air quality ranks among the top environmental risks to public health. A radon-related EPA investigation of 29 schools across the country found inadequate ventilation in most of the schools.
If the quality of the air your children breathe is bad, it can cause a multitude of symptoms such as dizziness, sore throat, sinus congestion, shortness of breath and an increased vulnerability to allergy attacks and asthma. These warning signs can significantly reduce your child's school attendance, productivity, and concentration and memory skills.
Exposure to air pollutants has increased through the years because buildings are being constructed with synthetic materials and moderate ventilation to save energy. In schools, pollutants are emitted from science labs, storage rooms, restrooms, kitchens and newly painted surfaces. Students with allergies, asthma or sensitivity to chemicals may be particularly susceptible. Even students who wear contact lenses are more vulnerable to illnesses in an environment with poor air quality.
Some states require public school districts to adopt a plan to monitor and improve indoor air quality. The Consumer Federation of America recommends that parents get involved to prevent any short- or long-term health problems. Parents can contact school officials and encourage them to obtain and use the EPA's Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools Action kit.
The free kit demonstrates a practical plan for schools to follow to improve indoor air quality. It includes a CD-ROM with guidelines for teachers and staff on general cleanliness, proper ventilation, how to store art and science supplies, and what to do about excess moisture.
There are also simple checklists for renovations, repairs, food service and walk-through inspections, such as:
* Are temperatures and humidity within acceptable ranges in the classrooms?
* Is there sufficient air flowing into and out of the room?
* Are exhaust vents free from blockage?
* Are students reporting any problems or concerns?
To help you answer these questions and maintain a healthy school environment for your children, call the IAQ information line at 1-800-438-4318 or visit the EPA's Web site at www.epa.gov/iaq/schools to order your free kit.
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