Ventilation Report

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. This is a key element in the multiple protective strategies being employed to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission and support healthier and safe learning environments for students and staff.

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 only will receive forced air ventilation systems prior to Dec 31, 2021. These spaces will use air filtration units until this work is complete.

 Standalone HEPA filter unites deployed: 1,120 

*This includes spending from dedicated ventilation programs, federal-provincial funding, provincial renewal funding and supplemental funding from other board sources.

MV - Mechanical Ventilation

NMV - Non-Mechanical Ventilation (Natural Ventilation / Exhaust Only)

PMV - Partial Mechanical Ventilation