EMSB begins installing CO2 sensors in schools and centres

The English Montreal School Board is completing the process of installing approximately 2,000 carbon dioxide (CO2) sensors in all schools and centres.  

To ensure that air quality is monitored in all schools in Quebec, the Ministère de l’Éducation  (MEQ) has asked that educational organizations install CO2 sensors in every classroom used for  pre-school, elementary, high schools and for vocational training and adult education. Carbon dioxide is naturally produced by human respiration. Normal concentrations of CO2 in indoor air generally do  not negatively affect the health of occupants. They may vary based on factors such as the number of occupants, the size of the room, the type of activity involved, the length of time spent in the  room and the effectiveness of ventilation.

The CO2 concentration at EMSB buildings will be monitored on an ongoing basis to allow for better management of ventilation in classrooms. A daily average CO2 concentration of less than 1500 ppm may be used as an indicator of good ventilation. The  installation of sensors, which is being done as equipment arrives,  will allow the concentration of CO2 to be monitored in real time in all  classrooms.

EMSB in-school administrators have all been supplied with the necessary information about these devices. Last year the EMSB purchased air purifiers for schools without mechanical ventilation systems. “I would like to assure our entire community that the health, safety and security of our staff and students remains our priority,” said EMSB Chair Joe Ortona.

About the English Montreal School Board

With a youth and adult sector population of more than 35,000 students, the English Montreal School Board (EMSB) is the largest English public school board in Quebec. Established on July 1, 1998, when the province created new boards along linguistic lines, the EMSB network consists of 77 schools and centres. For more details, visit the EMSB website at www.emsb.qc.ca.