Environmental Health in California Schools
34
Environmental Health in California Schools Eric Canteenwala U.S. EPA Region IX, Pacific Southwest School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St. San Francisco, CA 94105 [email protected] or (415) 972-3932 Green Schools Summit, Pasadena CA, October 2015
Transcript of Environmental Health in California Schools
Environmental Health in California Schools
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator
75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
Green Schools Summit Pasadena CA October 2015
Agenda for today 1 Indoor Air Quality in schools
EPArsquos Tools for Schools program
2 EPArsquos guidance on best management practices for reducing PCB exposure in schools
3 Building a model environmental health program at your school
Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
PCBrsquos
Indoor Air Quality
Asbestos
Chemicals in art roomsscience labsshop classes
Pesticides
Lead
Mold amp moisture
Mercury
Drinking water quality
Healthy lunchesfood waste
Energywater conservation
UV Exposure
Cleaning chemicals
FACT 105 million school days missed due to Asthma each year nationally
FACT Schools spend more on energy than textbooks and computers combined
FACT Poor indoor air quality harms academic performance
AHERA
How schools view environmental health
Local state and federal government agencies
Non-profit organizations
School districts county offices of education state and federal education agencies
Private industry amp local businesses
Unions and occupational health complaints
PTArsquos and concerned parents
Unfunded mandates
Elections amp local politics
California School Environmental Health Laws CALIFORNIA CITATION
Childrenrsquos Environmental Health
CAL HEALTH amp SAFETY CODE sectsect 900 to 901
Asbestos CAL GOVrsquoT CODE sect 37116 (West 2013) CAL EDUC CODE sectsect 49410 to 494107
Asthma CDPH Guidance - httpwwwcdphcagovprogramscaphiDocumentsdhsASTHMAguidelinesFINALpdf
Indoor Air Quality CAL PUB RES CODE sectsect 42630 to 42647
Lead CAL EDUC CODE sectsect 32240 to 32245
Mercury CAL HEALTH amp SAFETY CODE sect 25532
Pesticides CAL EDUC CODE sectsect 17608 to 17613
Smoking CAL EDUC CODE sect 48901
Indoor Air Quality in Schools
-On average we spend over 90 of our time indoors -Indoor air pollution can be far more concentrated than outdoor air pollution -Children are more vulnerable than adults to IAQ issues -15 of America goes to school every single day -13 million missed school days in California due to asthma each year
EPArsquos Tools for Schools program provides school districts with low cost common sense steps to improve IAQ
Whatrsquos in our air Children are more vulnerable
Check your local daily air quality at wwwairnowgov
Check out EPArsquos Enforcement Compliance History Online database
You can view a map of EPA regulated facilities and get information about the quality of the environment near your school using EJ Screen
The school indoor air environment is complex and can have many harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde benzene VOCrsquos Ozone and particulate matter
ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
-Benjamin Franklin
The benefits of improved IAQ Vast body of scientific literature points to increased academic
performance
One study showed that doubling the ventilation rate from about 75 cubic feet per minute per person (cfmperson) to 15 cfmperson improved academic performance by about 8 percent5
A US study of fifth-grade classrooms in 100 schools used student performance in standard academic tests as the measure of performance and estimated that there was nearly a 3 percent increase in the proportion of students passing standardized math and reading tests for each 2 cfmperson increase in the ventilation rate across the range of 2 to 15 cfmperson6
Many studies have shown that improved IAQ reduces student absenteeism and can boost a schoolrsquos ADA
Poor IAQ can be responsible for respiratory distress in children
How much air do we need
The average adult breathes about 25 CFM
ASHARE guidance (621) for classrooms is 10cfm per person assuming a density of 25 per 1000 sq ft
Passive ventilation from opening windows and doors is insufficient to meet this
Using ONLY passive ventilation
Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
Add fewer pollutants
Learn where and how pollutants are added
Occupant activities as well as maintenance activities
Remove Pollutants Quickly
Learn where and how pollutants are removed
Learn where and how fresh air is added
Lear about operation and maintenance of HVAC systems
Building structure Ventilation Landscaping pest
control Etc
There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
District School Occupants
bull Art amp science materials
bull Household cleaners
bull Personal care products
bull Activities awareness etc
Communication
The Healthy Schools Team
Nurses
School staff
School Board
Facilities Maintenance
Planning Contracting
Parents
Teachers
Students
Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
Includes checklists for teachers and facilities staff coordinatorrsquos guide and handouts for team members
Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
EPA Community Flag Program Staff training via webinar (in person depending on
location) Technical assistance on IAQ issues leverage EPArsquos
network of experienced scientists Technical Assistance from the Education Facilities
Clearinghouse Peer exchange networks with other schools on IAQ Asthma training and curriculum from American Lung
Association httpwwwlungorg EPArsquos Master Class Professional IAQ training webinars Detailed guidance documents on mold energy savings
plus health near roadway exposure school renovations school siting guidelines and more
Start a green cleaning program with guidance from CDPH
Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
Widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools between 1950-1979
Found in caulking window glaze FLBrsquos secondary sources paint vinyl products
bull Probable human carcinogen
bull Non-cancer health effects on the immune system endocrine system nervous system and reproductive system
bull Manufacture banned in 1979 by the Toxic Substances Control Act
Public Health Levels of PCBs in School Indoor Air (ngm3)
1-2 yr
2-3 yr
3-6 yr
6-12 yr Elementary School
12-15 yr Middle School
15-19 yr High School
19+ yr Adult
100 100 200 300 500 600 500
These public health levels were derived to serve as health protective values intended for screening purposes These levels should not be interpreted nor applied as ldquobright linerdquo or ldquonot-to-exceedrdquo criteria
Key Exposure Routes
Dust bull No nationally established public health levels
Soils bull No national public health levels for schools bull 024 ppm is the Regional Screening Level (RSL)
for a residential exposure scenario
Air bull Most important exposure route for indoor settings bull Public Health Levels can be found in ldquoPublic Health
Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Airrdquo (2009)
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Agenda for today 1 Indoor Air Quality in schools
EPArsquos Tools for Schools program
2 EPArsquos guidance on best management practices for reducing PCB exposure in schools
3 Building a model environmental health program at your school
Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
PCBrsquos
Indoor Air Quality
Asbestos
Chemicals in art roomsscience labsshop classes
Pesticides
Lead
Mold amp moisture
Mercury
Drinking water quality
Healthy lunchesfood waste
Energywater conservation
UV Exposure
Cleaning chemicals
FACT 105 million school days missed due to Asthma each year nationally
FACT Schools spend more on energy than textbooks and computers combined
FACT Poor indoor air quality harms academic performance
AHERA
How schools view environmental health
Local state and federal government agencies
Non-profit organizations
School districts county offices of education state and federal education agencies
Private industry amp local businesses
Unions and occupational health complaints
PTArsquos and concerned parents
Unfunded mandates
Elections amp local politics
California School Environmental Health Laws CALIFORNIA CITATION
Childrenrsquos Environmental Health
CAL HEALTH amp SAFETY CODE sectsect 900 to 901
Asbestos CAL GOVrsquoT CODE sect 37116 (West 2013) CAL EDUC CODE sectsect 49410 to 494107
Asthma CDPH Guidance - httpwwwcdphcagovprogramscaphiDocumentsdhsASTHMAguidelinesFINALpdf
Indoor Air Quality CAL PUB RES CODE sectsect 42630 to 42647
Lead CAL EDUC CODE sectsect 32240 to 32245
Mercury CAL HEALTH amp SAFETY CODE sect 25532
Pesticides CAL EDUC CODE sectsect 17608 to 17613
Smoking CAL EDUC CODE sect 48901
Indoor Air Quality in Schools
-On average we spend over 90 of our time indoors -Indoor air pollution can be far more concentrated than outdoor air pollution -Children are more vulnerable than adults to IAQ issues -15 of America goes to school every single day -13 million missed school days in California due to asthma each year
EPArsquos Tools for Schools program provides school districts with low cost common sense steps to improve IAQ
Whatrsquos in our air Children are more vulnerable
Check your local daily air quality at wwwairnowgov
Check out EPArsquos Enforcement Compliance History Online database
You can view a map of EPA regulated facilities and get information about the quality of the environment near your school using EJ Screen
The school indoor air environment is complex and can have many harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde benzene VOCrsquos Ozone and particulate matter
ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
-Benjamin Franklin
The benefits of improved IAQ Vast body of scientific literature points to increased academic
performance
One study showed that doubling the ventilation rate from about 75 cubic feet per minute per person (cfmperson) to 15 cfmperson improved academic performance by about 8 percent5
A US study of fifth-grade classrooms in 100 schools used student performance in standard academic tests as the measure of performance and estimated that there was nearly a 3 percent increase in the proportion of students passing standardized math and reading tests for each 2 cfmperson increase in the ventilation rate across the range of 2 to 15 cfmperson6
Many studies have shown that improved IAQ reduces student absenteeism and can boost a schoolrsquos ADA
Poor IAQ can be responsible for respiratory distress in children
How much air do we need
The average adult breathes about 25 CFM
ASHARE guidance (621) for classrooms is 10cfm per person assuming a density of 25 per 1000 sq ft
Passive ventilation from opening windows and doors is insufficient to meet this
Using ONLY passive ventilation
Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
Add fewer pollutants
Learn where and how pollutants are added
Occupant activities as well as maintenance activities
Remove Pollutants Quickly
Learn where and how pollutants are removed
Learn where and how fresh air is added
Lear about operation and maintenance of HVAC systems
Building structure Ventilation Landscaping pest
control Etc
There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
District School Occupants
bull Art amp science materials
bull Household cleaners
bull Personal care products
bull Activities awareness etc
Communication
The Healthy Schools Team
Nurses
School staff
School Board
Facilities Maintenance
Planning Contracting
Parents
Teachers
Students
Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
Includes checklists for teachers and facilities staff coordinatorrsquos guide and handouts for team members
Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
EPA Community Flag Program Staff training via webinar (in person depending on
location) Technical assistance on IAQ issues leverage EPArsquos
network of experienced scientists Technical Assistance from the Education Facilities
Clearinghouse Peer exchange networks with other schools on IAQ Asthma training and curriculum from American Lung
Association httpwwwlungorg EPArsquos Master Class Professional IAQ training webinars Detailed guidance documents on mold energy savings
plus health near roadway exposure school renovations school siting guidelines and more
Start a green cleaning program with guidance from CDPH
Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
Widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools between 1950-1979
Found in caulking window glaze FLBrsquos secondary sources paint vinyl products
bull Probable human carcinogen
bull Non-cancer health effects on the immune system endocrine system nervous system and reproductive system
bull Manufacture banned in 1979 by the Toxic Substances Control Act
Public Health Levels of PCBs in School Indoor Air (ngm3)
1-2 yr
2-3 yr
3-6 yr
6-12 yr Elementary School
12-15 yr Middle School
15-19 yr High School
19+ yr Adult
100 100 200 300 500 600 500
These public health levels were derived to serve as health protective values intended for screening purposes These levels should not be interpreted nor applied as ldquobright linerdquo or ldquonot-to-exceedrdquo criteria
Key Exposure Routes
Dust bull No nationally established public health levels
Soils bull No national public health levels for schools bull 024 ppm is the Regional Screening Level (RSL)
for a residential exposure scenario
Air bull Most important exposure route for indoor settings bull Public Health Levels can be found in ldquoPublic Health
Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Airrdquo (2009)
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
PCBrsquos
Indoor Air Quality
Asbestos
Chemicals in art roomsscience labsshop classes
Pesticides
Lead
Mold amp moisture
Mercury
Drinking water quality
Healthy lunchesfood waste
Energywater conservation
UV Exposure
Cleaning chemicals
FACT 105 million school days missed due to Asthma each year nationally
FACT Schools spend more on energy than textbooks and computers combined
FACT Poor indoor air quality harms academic performance
AHERA
How schools view environmental health
Local state and federal government agencies
Non-profit organizations
School districts county offices of education state and federal education agencies
Private industry amp local businesses
Unions and occupational health complaints
PTArsquos and concerned parents
Unfunded mandates
Elections amp local politics
California School Environmental Health Laws CALIFORNIA CITATION
Childrenrsquos Environmental Health
CAL HEALTH amp SAFETY CODE sectsect 900 to 901
Asbestos CAL GOVrsquoT CODE sect 37116 (West 2013) CAL EDUC CODE sectsect 49410 to 494107
Asthma CDPH Guidance - httpwwwcdphcagovprogramscaphiDocumentsdhsASTHMAguidelinesFINALpdf
Indoor Air Quality CAL PUB RES CODE sectsect 42630 to 42647
Lead CAL EDUC CODE sectsect 32240 to 32245
Mercury CAL HEALTH amp SAFETY CODE sect 25532
Pesticides CAL EDUC CODE sectsect 17608 to 17613
Smoking CAL EDUC CODE sect 48901
Indoor Air Quality in Schools
-On average we spend over 90 of our time indoors -Indoor air pollution can be far more concentrated than outdoor air pollution -Children are more vulnerable than adults to IAQ issues -15 of America goes to school every single day -13 million missed school days in California due to asthma each year
EPArsquos Tools for Schools program provides school districts with low cost common sense steps to improve IAQ
Whatrsquos in our air Children are more vulnerable
Check your local daily air quality at wwwairnowgov
Check out EPArsquos Enforcement Compliance History Online database
You can view a map of EPA regulated facilities and get information about the quality of the environment near your school using EJ Screen
The school indoor air environment is complex and can have many harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde benzene VOCrsquos Ozone and particulate matter
ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
-Benjamin Franklin
The benefits of improved IAQ Vast body of scientific literature points to increased academic
performance
One study showed that doubling the ventilation rate from about 75 cubic feet per minute per person (cfmperson) to 15 cfmperson improved academic performance by about 8 percent5
A US study of fifth-grade classrooms in 100 schools used student performance in standard academic tests as the measure of performance and estimated that there was nearly a 3 percent increase in the proportion of students passing standardized math and reading tests for each 2 cfmperson increase in the ventilation rate across the range of 2 to 15 cfmperson6
Many studies have shown that improved IAQ reduces student absenteeism and can boost a schoolrsquos ADA
Poor IAQ can be responsible for respiratory distress in children
How much air do we need
The average adult breathes about 25 CFM
ASHARE guidance (621) for classrooms is 10cfm per person assuming a density of 25 per 1000 sq ft
Passive ventilation from opening windows and doors is insufficient to meet this
Using ONLY passive ventilation
Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
Add fewer pollutants
Learn where and how pollutants are added
Occupant activities as well as maintenance activities
Remove Pollutants Quickly
Learn where and how pollutants are removed
Learn where and how fresh air is added
Lear about operation and maintenance of HVAC systems
Building structure Ventilation Landscaping pest
control Etc
There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
District School Occupants
bull Art amp science materials
bull Household cleaners
bull Personal care products
bull Activities awareness etc
Communication
The Healthy Schools Team
Nurses
School staff
School Board
Facilities Maintenance
Planning Contracting
Parents
Teachers
Students
Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
Includes checklists for teachers and facilities staff coordinatorrsquos guide and handouts for team members
Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
EPA Community Flag Program Staff training via webinar (in person depending on
location) Technical assistance on IAQ issues leverage EPArsquos
network of experienced scientists Technical Assistance from the Education Facilities
Clearinghouse Peer exchange networks with other schools on IAQ Asthma training and curriculum from American Lung
Association httpwwwlungorg EPArsquos Master Class Professional IAQ training webinars Detailed guidance documents on mold energy savings
plus health near roadway exposure school renovations school siting guidelines and more
Start a green cleaning program with guidance from CDPH
Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
Widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools between 1950-1979
Found in caulking window glaze FLBrsquos secondary sources paint vinyl products
bull Probable human carcinogen
bull Non-cancer health effects on the immune system endocrine system nervous system and reproductive system
bull Manufacture banned in 1979 by the Toxic Substances Control Act
Public Health Levels of PCBs in School Indoor Air (ngm3)
1-2 yr
2-3 yr
3-6 yr
6-12 yr Elementary School
12-15 yr Middle School
15-19 yr High School
19+ yr Adult
100 100 200 300 500 600 500
These public health levels were derived to serve as health protective values intended for screening purposes These levels should not be interpreted nor applied as ldquobright linerdquo or ldquonot-to-exceedrdquo criteria
Key Exposure Routes
Dust bull No nationally established public health levels
Soils bull No national public health levels for schools bull 024 ppm is the Regional Screening Level (RSL)
for a residential exposure scenario
Air bull Most important exposure route for indoor settings bull Public Health Levels can be found in ldquoPublic Health
Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Airrdquo (2009)
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
AHERA
How schools view environmental health
Local state and federal government agencies
Non-profit organizations
School districts county offices of education state and federal education agencies
Private industry amp local businesses
Unions and occupational health complaints
PTArsquos and concerned parents
Unfunded mandates
Elections amp local politics
California School Environmental Health Laws CALIFORNIA CITATION
Childrenrsquos Environmental Health
CAL HEALTH amp SAFETY CODE sectsect 900 to 901
Asbestos CAL GOVrsquoT CODE sect 37116 (West 2013) CAL EDUC CODE sectsect 49410 to 494107
Asthma CDPH Guidance - httpwwwcdphcagovprogramscaphiDocumentsdhsASTHMAguidelinesFINALpdf
Indoor Air Quality CAL PUB RES CODE sectsect 42630 to 42647
Lead CAL EDUC CODE sectsect 32240 to 32245
Mercury CAL HEALTH amp SAFETY CODE sect 25532
Pesticides CAL EDUC CODE sectsect 17608 to 17613
Smoking CAL EDUC CODE sect 48901
Indoor Air Quality in Schools
-On average we spend over 90 of our time indoors -Indoor air pollution can be far more concentrated than outdoor air pollution -Children are more vulnerable than adults to IAQ issues -15 of America goes to school every single day -13 million missed school days in California due to asthma each year
EPArsquos Tools for Schools program provides school districts with low cost common sense steps to improve IAQ
Whatrsquos in our air Children are more vulnerable
Check your local daily air quality at wwwairnowgov
Check out EPArsquos Enforcement Compliance History Online database
You can view a map of EPA regulated facilities and get information about the quality of the environment near your school using EJ Screen
The school indoor air environment is complex and can have many harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde benzene VOCrsquos Ozone and particulate matter
ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
-Benjamin Franklin
The benefits of improved IAQ Vast body of scientific literature points to increased academic
performance
One study showed that doubling the ventilation rate from about 75 cubic feet per minute per person (cfmperson) to 15 cfmperson improved academic performance by about 8 percent5
A US study of fifth-grade classrooms in 100 schools used student performance in standard academic tests as the measure of performance and estimated that there was nearly a 3 percent increase in the proportion of students passing standardized math and reading tests for each 2 cfmperson increase in the ventilation rate across the range of 2 to 15 cfmperson6
Many studies have shown that improved IAQ reduces student absenteeism and can boost a schoolrsquos ADA
Poor IAQ can be responsible for respiratory distress in children
How much air do we need
The average adult breathes about 25 CFM
ASHARE guidance (621) for classrooms is 10cfm per person assuming a density of 25 per 1000 sq ft
Passive ventilation from opening windows and doors is insufficient to meet this
Using ONLY passive ventilation
Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
Add fewer pollutants
Learn where and how pollutants are added
Occupant activities as well as maintenance activities
Remove Pollutants Quickly
Learn where and how pollutants are removed
Learn where and how fresh air is added
Lear about operation and maintenance of HVAC systems
Building structure Ventilation Landscaping pest
control Etc
There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
District School Occupants
bull Art amp science materials
bull Household cleaners
bull Personal care products
bull Activities awareness etc
Communication
The Healthy Schools Team
Nurses
School staff
School Board
Facilities Maintenance
Planning Contracting
Parents
Teachers
Students
Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
Includes checklists for teachers and facilities staff coordinatorrsquos guide and handouts for team members
Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
EPA Community Flag Program Staff training via webinar (in person depending on
location) Technical assistance on IAQ issues leverage EPArsquos
network of experienced scientists Technical Assistance from the Education Facilities
Clearinghouse Peer exchange networks with other schools on IAQ Asthma training and curriculum from American Lung
Association httpwwwlungorg EPArsquos Master Class Professional IAQ training webinars Detailed guidance documents on mold energy savings
plus health near roadway exposure school renovations school siting guidelines and more
Start a green cleaning program with guidance from CDPH
Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
Widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools between 1950-1979
Found in caulking window glaze FLBrsquos secondary sources paint vinyl products
bull Probable human carcinogen
bull Non-cancer health effects on the immune system endocrine system nervous system and reproductive system
bull Manufacture banned in 1979 by the Toxic Substances Control Act
Public Health Levels of PCBs in School Indoor Air (ngm3)
1-2 yr
2-3 yr
3-6 yr
6-12 yr Elementary School
12-15 yr Middle School
15-19 yr High School
19+ yr Adult
100 100 200 300 500 600 500
These public health levels were derived to serve as health protective values intended for screening purposes These levels should not be interpreted nor applied as ldquobright linerdquo or ldquonot-to-exceedrdquo criteria
Key Exposure Routes
Dust bull No nationally established public health levels
Soils bull No national public health levels for schools bull 024 ppm is the Regional Screening Level (RSL)
for a residential exposure scenario
Air bull Most important exposure route for indoor settings bull Public Health Levels can be found in ldquoPublic Health
Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Airrdquo (2009)
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
California School Environmental Health Laws CALIFORNIA CITATION
Childrenrsquos Environmental Health
CAL HEALTH amp SAFETY CODE sectsect 900 to 901
Asbestos CAL GOVrsquoT CODE sect 37116 (West 2013) CAL EDUC CODE sectsect 49410 to 494107
Asthma CDPH Guidance - httpwwwcdphcagovprogramscaphiDocumentsdhsASTHMAguidelinesFINALpdf
Indoor Air Quality CAL PUB RES CODE sectsect 42630 to 42647
Lead CAL EDUC CODE sectsect 32240 to 32245
Mercury CAL HEALTH amp SAFETY CODE sect 25532
Pesticides CAL EDUC CODE sectsect 17608 to 17613
Smoking CAL EDUC CODE sect 48901
Indoor Air Quality in Schools
-On average we spend over 90 of our time indoors -Indoor air pollution can be far more concentrated than outdoor air pollution -Children are more vulnerable than adults to IAQ issues -15 of America goes to school every single day -13 million missed school days in California due to asthma each year
EPArsquos Tools for Schools program provides school districts with low cost common sense steps to improve IAQ
Whatrsquos in our air Children are more vulnerable
Check your local daily air quality at wwwairnowgov
Check out EPArsquos Enforcement Compliance History Online database
You can view a map of EPA regulated facilities and get information about the quality of the environment near your school using EJ Screen
The school indoor air environment is complex and can have many harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde benzene VOCrsquos Ozone and particulate matter
ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
-Benjamin Franklin
The benefits of improved IAQ Vast body of scientific literature points to increased academic
performance
One study showed that doubling the ventilation rate from about 75 cubic feet per minute per person (cfmperson) to 15 cfmperson improved academic performance by about 8 percent5
A US study of fifth-grade classrooms in 100 schools used student performance in standard academic tests as the measure of performance and estimated that there was nearly a 3 percent increase in the proportion of students passing standardized math and reading tests for each 2 cfmperson increase in the ventilation rate across the range of 2 to 15 cfmperson6
Many studies have shown that improved IAQ reduces student absenteeism and can boost a schoolrsquos ADA
Poor IAQ can be responsible for respiratory distress in children
How much air do we need
The average adult breathes about 25 CFM
ASHARE guidance (621) for classrooms is 10cfm per person assuming a density of 25 per 1000 sq ft
Passive ventilation from opening windows and doors is insufficient to meet this
Using ONLY passive ventilation
Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
Add fewer pollutants
Learn where and how pollutants are added
Occupant activities as well as maintenance activities
Remove Pollutants Quickly
Learn where and how pollutants are removed
Learn where and how fresh air is added
Lear about operation and maintenance of HVAC systems
Building structure Ventilation Landscaping pest
control Etc
There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
District School Occupants
bull Art amp science materials
bull Household cleaners
bull Personal care products
bull Activities awareness etc
Communication
The Healthy Schools Team
Nurses
School staff
School Board
Facilities Maintenance
Planning Contracting
Parents
Teachers
Students
Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
Includes checklists for teachers and facilities staff coordinatorrsquos guide and handouts for team members
Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
EPA Community Flag Program Staff training via webinar (in person depending on
location) Technical assistance on IAQ issues leverage EPArsquos
network of experienced scientists Technical Assistance from the Education Facilities
Clearinghouse Peer exchange networks with other schools on IAQ Asthma training and curriculum from American Lung
Association httpwwwlungorg EPArsquos Master Class Professional IAQ training webinars Detailed guidance documents on mold energy savings
plus health near roadway exposure school renovations school siting guidelines and more
Start a green cleaning program with guidance from CDPH
Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
Widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools between 1950-1979
Found in caulking window glaze FLBrsquos secondary sources paint vinyl products
bull Probable human carcinogen
bull Non-cancer health effects on the immune system endocrine system nervous system and reproductive system
bull Manufacture banned in 1979 by the Toxic Substances Control Act
Public Health Levels of PCBs in School Indoor Air (ngm3)
1-2 yr
2-3 yr
3-6 yr
6-12 yr Elementary School
12-15 yr Middle School
15-19 yr High School
19+ yr Adult
100 100 200 300 500 600 500
These public health levels were derived to serve as health protective values intended for screening purposes These levels should not be interpreted nor applied as ldquobright linerdquo or ldquonot-to-exceedrdquo criteria
Key Exposure Routes
Dust bull No nationally established public health levels
Soils bull No national public health levels for schools bull 024 ppm is the Regional Screening Level (RSL)
for a residential exposure scenario
Air bull Most important exposure route for indoor settings bull Public Health Levels can be found in ldquoPublic Health
Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Airrdquo (2009)
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Indoor Air Quality in Schools
-On average we spend over 90 of our time indoors -Indoor air pollution can be far more concentrated than outdoor air pollution -Children are more vulnerable than adults to IAQ issues -15 of America goes to school every single day -13 million missed school days in California due to asthma each year
EPArsquos Tools for Schools program provides school districts with low cost common sense steps to improve IAQ
Whatrsquos in our air Children are more vulnerable
Check your local daily air quality at wwwairnowgov
Check out EPArsquos Enforcement Compliance History Online database
You can view a map of EPA regulated facilities and get information about the quality of the environment near your school using EJ Screen
The school indoor air environment is complex and can have many harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde benzene VOCrsquos Ozone and particulate matter
ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
-Benjamin Franklin
The benefits of improved IAQ Vast body of scientific literature points to increased academic
performance
One study showed that doubling the ventilation rate from about 75 cubic feet per minute per person (cfmperson) to 15 cfmperson improved academic performance by about 8 percent5
A US study of fifth-grade classrooms in 100 schools used student performance in standard academic tests as the measure of performance and estimated that there was nearly a 3 percent increase in the proportion of students passing standardized math and reading tests for each 2 cfmperson increase in the ventilation rate across the range of 2 to 15 cfmperson6
Many studies have shown that improved IAQ reduces student absenteeism and can boost a schoolrsquos ADA
Poor IAQ can be responsible for respiratory distress in children
How much air do we need
The average adult breathes about 25 CFM
ASHARE guidance (621) for classrooms is 10cfm per person assuming a density of 25 per 1000 sq ft
Passive ventilation from opening windows and doors is insufficient to meet this
Using ONLY passive ventilation
Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
Add fewer pollutants
Learn where and how pollutants are added
Occupant activities as well as maintenance activities
Remove Pollutants Quickly
Learn where and how pollutants are removed
Learn where and how fresh air is added
Lear about operation and maintenance of HVAC systems
Building structure Ventilation Landscaping pest
control Etc
There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
District School Occupants
bull Art amp science materials
bull Household cleaners
bull Personal care products
bull Activities awareness etc
Communication
The Healthy Schools Team
Nurses
School staff
School Board
Facilities Maintenance
Planning Contracting
Parents
Teachers
Students
Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
Includes checklists for teachers and facilities staff coordinatorrsquos guide and handouts for team members
Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
EPA Community Flag Program Staff training via webinar (in person depending on
location) Technical assistance on IAQ issues leverage EPArsquos
network of experienced scientists Technical Assistance from the Education Facilities
Clearinghouse Peer exchange networks with other schools on IAQ Asthma training and curriculum from American Lung
Association httpwwwlungorg EPArsquos Master Class Professional IAQ training webinars Detailed guidance documents on mold energy savings
plus health near roadway exposure school renovations school siting guidelines and more
Start a green cleaning program with guidance from CDPH
Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
Widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools between 1950-1979
Found in caulking window glaze FLBrsquos secondary sources paint vinyl products
bull Probable human carcinogen
bull Non-cancer health effects on the immune system endocrine system nervous system and reproductive system
bull Manufacture banned in 1979 by the Toxic Substances Control Act
Public Health Levels of PCBs in School Indoor Air (ngm3)
1-2 yr
2-3 yr
3-6 yr
6-12 yr Elementary School
12-15 yr Middle School
15-19 yr High School
19+ yr Adult
100 100 200 300 500 600 500
These public health levels were derived to serve as health protective values intended for screening purposes These levels should not be interpreted nor applied as ldquobright linerdquo or ldquonot-to-exceedrdquo criteria
Key Exposure Routes
Dust bull No nationally established public health levels
Soils bull No national public health levels for schools bull 024 ppm is the Regional Screening Level (RSL)
for a residential exposure scenario
Air bull Most important exposure route for indoor settings bull Public Health Levels can be found in ldquoPublic Health
Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Airrdquo (2009)
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Whatrsquos in our air Children are more vulnerable
Check your local daily air quality at wwwairnowgov
Check out EPArsquos Enforcement Compliance History Online database
You can view a map of EPA regulated facilities and get information about the quality of the environment near your school using EJ Screen
The school indoor air environment is complex and can have many harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde benzene VOCrsquos Ozone and particulate matter
ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
-Benjamin Franklin
The benefits of improved IAQ Vast body of scientific literature points to increased academic
performance
One study showed that doubling the ventilation rate from about 75 cubic feet per minute per person (cfmperson) to 15 cfmperson improved academic performance by about 8 percent5
A US study of fifth-grade classrooms in 100 schools used student performance in standard academic tests as the measure of performance and estimated that there was nearly a 3 percent increase in the proportion of students passing standardized math and reading tests for each 2 cfmperson increase in the ventilation rate across the range of 2 to 15 cfmperson6
Many studies have shown that improved IAQ reduces student absenteeism and can boost a schoolrsquos ADA
Poor IAQ can be responsible for respiratory distress in children
How much air do we need
The average adult breathes about 25 CFM
ASHARE guidance (621) for classrooms is 10cfm per person assuming a density of 25 per 1000 sq ft
Passive ventilation from opening windows and doors is insufficient to meet this
Using ONLY passive ventilation
Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
Add fewer pollutants
Learn where and how pollutants are added
Occupant activities as well as maintenance activities
Remove Pollutants Quickly
Learn where and how pollutants are removed
Learn where and how fresh air is added
Lear about operation and maintenance of HVAC systems
Building structure Ventilation Landscaping pest
control Etc
There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
District School Occupants
bull Art amp science materials
bull Household cleaners
bull Personal care products
bull Activities awareness etc
Communication
The Healthy Schools Team
Nurses
School staff
School Board
Facilities Maintenance
Planning Contracting
Parents
Teachers
Students
Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
Includes checklists for teachers and facilities staff coordinatorrsquos guide and handouts for team members
Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
EPA Community Flag Program Staff training via webinar (in person depending on
location) Technical assistance on IAQ issues leverage EPArsquos
network of experienced scientists Technical Assistance from the Education Facilities
Clearinghouse Peer exchange networks with other schools on IAQ Asthma training and curriculum from American Lung
Association httpwwwlungorg EPArsquos Master Class Professional IAQ training webinars Detailed guidance documents on mold energy savings
plus health near roadway exposure school renovations school siting guidelines and more
Start a green cleaning program with guidance from CDPH
Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
Widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools between 1950-1979
Found in caulking window glaze FLBrsquos secondary sources paint vinyl products
bull Probable human carcinogen
bull Non-cancer health effects on the immune system endocrine system nervous system and reproductive system
bull Manufacture banned in 1979 by the Toxic Substances Control Act
Public Health Levels of PCBs in School Indoor Air (ngm3)
1-2 yr
2-3 yr
3-6 yr
6-12 yr Elementary School
12-15 yr Middle School
15-19 yr High School
19+ yr Adult
100 100 200 300 500 600 500
These public health levels were derived to serve as health protective values intended for screening purposes These levels should not be interpreted nor applied as ldquobright linerdquo or ldquonot-to-exceedrdquo criteria
Key Exposure Routes
Dust bull No nationally established public health levels
Soils bull No national public health levels for schools bull 024 ppm is the Regional Screening Level (RSL)
for a residential exposure scenario
Air bull Most important exposure route for indoor settings bull Public Health Levels can be found in ldquoPublic Health
Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Airrdquo (2009)
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
-Benjamin Franklin
The benefits of improved IAQ Vast body of scientific literature points to increased academic
performance
One study showed that doubling the ventilation rate from about 75 cubic feet per minute per person (cfmperson) to 15 cfmperson improved academic performance by about 8 percent5
A US study of fifth-grade classrooms in 100 schools used student performance in standard academic tests as the measure of performance and estimated that there was nearly a 3 percent increase in the proportion of students passing standardized math and reading tests for each 2 cfmperson increase in the ventilation rate across the range of 2 to 15 cfmperson6
Many studies have shown that improved IAQ reduces student absenteeism and can boost a schoolrsquos ADA
Poor IAQ can be responsible for respiratory distress in children
How much air do we need
The average adult breathes about 25 CFM
ASHARE guidance (621) for classrooms is 10cfm per person assuming a density of 25 per 1000 sq ft
Passive ventilation from opening windows and doors is insufficient to meet this
Using ONLY passive ventilation
Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
Add fewer pollutants
Learn where and how pollutants are added
Occupant activities as well as maintenance activities
Remove Pollutants Quickly
Learn where and how pollutants are removed
Learn where and how fresh air is added
Lear about operation and maintenance of HVAC systems
Building structure Ventilation Landscaping pest
control Etc
There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
District School Occupants
bull Art amp science materials
bull Household cleaners
bull Personal care products
bull Activities awareness etc
Communication
The Healthy Schools Team
Nurses
School staff
School Board
Facilities Maintenance
Planning Contracting
Parents
Teachers
Students
Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
Includes checklists for teachers and facilities staff coordinatorrsquos guide and handouts for team members
Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
EPA Community Flag Program Staff training via webinar (in person depending on
location) Technical assistance on IAQ issues leverage EPArsquos
network of experienced scientists Technical Assistance from the Education Facilities
Clearinghouse Peer exchange networks with other schools on IAQ Asthma training and curriculum from American Lung
Association httpwwwlungorg EPArsquos Master Class Professional IAQ training webinars Detailed guidance documents on mold energy savings
plus health near roadway exposure school renovations school siting guidelines and more
Start a green cleaning program with guidance from CDPH
Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
Widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools between 1950-1979
Found in caulking window glaze FLBrsquos secondary sources paint vinyl products
bull Probable human carcinogen
bull Non-cancer health effects on the immune system endocrine system nervous system and reproductive system
bull Manufacture banned in 1979 by the Toxic Substances Control Act
Public Health Levels of PCBs in School Indoor Air (ngm3)
1-2 yr
2-3 yr
3-6 yr
6-12 yr Elementary School
12-15 yr Middle School
15-19 yr High School
19+ yr Adult
100 100 200 300 500 600 500
These public health levels were derived to serve as health protective values intended for screening purposes These levels should not be interpreted nor applied as ldquobright linerdquo or ldquonot-to-exceedrdquo criteria
Key Exposure Routes
Dust bull No nationally established public health levels
Soils bull No national public health levels for schools bull 024 ppm is the Regional Screening Level (RSL)
for a residential exposure scenario
Air bull Most important exposure route for indoor settings bull Public Health Levels can be found in ldquoPublic Health
Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Airrdquo (2009)
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
The benefits of improved IAQ Vast body of scientific literature points to increased academic
performance
One study showed that doubling the ventilation rate from about 75 cubic feet per minute per person (cfmperson) to 15 cfmperson improved academic performance by about 8 percent5
A US study of fifth-grade classrooms in 100 schools used student performance in standard academic tests as the measure of performance and estimated that there was nearly a 3 percent increase in the proportion of students passing standardized math and reading tests for each 2 cfmperson increase in the ventilation rate across the range of 2 to 15 cfmperson6
Many studies have shown that improved IAQ reduces student absenteeism and can boost a schoolrsquos ADA
Poor IAQ can be responsible for respiratory distress in children
How much air do we need
The average adult breathes about 25 CFM
ASHARE guidance (621) for classrooms is 10cfm per person assuming a density of 25 per 1000 sq ft
Passive ventilation from opening windows and doors is insufficient to meet this
Using ONLY passive ventilation
Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
Add fewer pollutants
Learn where and how pollutants are added
Occupant activities as well as maintenance activities
Remove Pollutants Quickly
Learn where and how pollutants are removed
Learn where and how fresh air is added
Lear about operation and maintenance of HVAC systems
Building structure Ventilation Landscaping pest
control Etc
There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
District School Occupants
bull Art amp science materials
bull Household cleaners
bull Personal care products
bull Activities awareness etc
Communication
The Healthy Schools Team
Nurses
School staff
School Board
Facilities Maintenance
Planning Contracting
Parents
Teachers
Students
Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
Includes checklists for teachers and facilities staff coordinatorrsquos guide and handouts for team members
Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
EPA Community Flag Program Staff training via webinar (in person depending on
location) Technical assistance on IAQ issues leverage EPArsquos
network of experienced scientists Technical Assistance from the Education Facilities
Clearinghouse Peer exchange networks with other schools on IAQ Asthma training and curriculum from American Lung
Association httpwwwlungorg EPArsquos Master Class Professional IAQ training webinars Detailed guidance documents on mold energy savings
plus health near roadway exposure school renovations school siting guidelines and more
Start a green cleaning program with guidance from CDPH
Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
Widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools between 1950-1979
Found in caulking window glaze FLBrsquos secondary sources paint vinyl products
bull Probable human carcinogen
bull Non-cancer health effects on the immune system endocrine system nervous system and reproductive system
bull Manufacture banned in 1979 by the Toxic Substances Control Act
Public Health Levels of PCBs in School Indoor Air (ngm3)
1-2 yr
2-3 yr
3-6 yr
6-12 yr Elementary School
12-15 yr Middle School
15-19 yr High School
19+ yr Adult
100 100 200 300 500 600 500
These public health levels were derived to serve as health protective values intended for screening purposes These levels should not be interpreted nor applied as ldquobright linerdquo or ldquonot-to-exceedrdquo criteria
Key Exposure Routes
Dust bull No nationally established public health levels
Soils bull No national public health levels for schools bull 024 ppm is the Regional Screening Level (RSL)
for a residential exposure scenario
Air bull Most important exposure route for indoor settings bull Public Health Levels can be found in ldquoPublic Health
Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Airrdquo (2009)
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
How much air do we need
The average adult breathes about 25 CFM
ASHARE guidance (621) for classrooms is 10cfm per person assuming a density of 25 per 1000 sq ft
Passive ventilation from opening windows and doors is insufficient to meet this
Using ONLY passive ventilation
Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
Add fewer pollutants
Learn where and how pollutants are added
Occupant activities as well as maintenance activities
Remove Pollutants Quickly
Learn where and how pollutants are removed
Learn where and how fresh air is added
Lear about operation and maintenance of HVAC systems
Building structure Ventilation Landscaping pest
control Etc
There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
District School Occupants
bull Art amp science materials
bull Household cleaners
bull Personal care products
bull Activities awareness etc
Communication
The Healthy Schools Team
Nurses
School staff
School Board
Facilities Maintenance
Planning Contracting
Parents
Teachers
Students
Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
Includes checklists for teachers and facilities staff coordinatorrsquos guide and handouts for team members
Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
EPA Community Flag Program Staff training via webinar (in person depending on
location) Technical assistance on IAQ issues leverage EPArsquos
network of experienced scientists Technical Assistance from the Education Facilities
Clearinghouse Peer exchange networks with other schools on IAQ Asthma training and curriculum from American Lung
Association httpwwwlungorg EPArsquos Master Class Professional IAQ training webinars Detailed guidance documents on mold energy savings
plus health near roadway exposure school renovations school siting guidelines and more
Start a green cleaning program with guidance from CDPH
Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
Widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools between 1950-1979
Found in caulking window glaze FLBrsquos secondary sources paint vinyl products
bull Probable human carcinogen
bull Non-cancer health effects on the immune system endocrine system nervous system and reproductive system
bull Manufacture banned in 1979 by the Toxic Substances Control Act
Public Health Levels of PCBs in School Indoor Air (ngm3)
1-2 yr
2-3 yr
3-6 yr
6-12 yr Elementary School
12-15 yr Middle School
15-19 yr High School
19+ yr Adult
100 100 200 300 500 600 500
These public health levels were derived to serve as health protective values intended for screening purposes These levels should not be interpreted nor applied as ldquobright linerdquo or ldquonot-to-exceedrdquo criteria
Key Exposure Routes
Dust bull No nationally established public health levels
Soils bull No national public health levels for schools bull 024 ppm is the Regional Screening Level (RSL)
for a residential exposure scenario
Air bull Most important exposure route for indoor settings bull Public Health Levels can be found in ldquoPublic Health
Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Airrdquo (2009)
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
Add fewer pollutants
Learn where and how pollutants are added
Occupant activities as well as maintenance activities
Remove Pollutants Quickly
Learn where and how pollutants are removed
Learn where and how fresh air is added
Lear about operation and maintenance of HVAC systems
Building structure Ventilation Landscaping pest
control Etc
There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
District School Occupants
bull Art amp science materials
bull Household cleaners
bull Personal care products
bull Activities awareness etc
Communication
The Healthy Schools Team
Nurses
School staff
School Board
Facilities Maintenance
Planning Contracting
Parents
Teachers
Students
Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
Includes checklists for teachers and facilities staff coordinatorrsquos guide and handouts for team members
Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
EPA Community Flag Program Staff training via webinar (in person depending on
location) Technical assistance on IAQ issues leverage EPArsquos
network of experienced scientists Technical Assistance from the Education Facilities
Clearinghouse Peer exchange networks with other schools on IAQ Asthma training and curriculum from American Lung
Association httpwwwlungorg EPArsquos Master Class Professional IAQ training webinars Detailed guidance documents on mold energy savings
plus health near roadway exposure school renovations school siting guidelines and more
Start a green cleaning program with guidance from CDPH
Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
Widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools between 1950-1979
Found in caulking window glaze FLBrsquos secondary sources paint vinyl products
bull Probable human carcinogen
bull Non-cancer health effects on the immune system endocrine system nervous system and reproductive system
bull Manufacture banned in 1979 by the Toxic Substances Control Act
Public Health Levels of PCBs in School Indoor Air (ngm3)
1-2 yr
2-3 yr
3-6 yr
6-12 yr Elementary School
12-15 yr Middle School
15-19 yr High School
19+ yr Adult
100 100 200 300 500 600 500
These public health levels were derived to serve as health protective values intended for screening purposes These levels should not be interpreted nor applied as ldquobright linerdquo or ldquonot-to-exceedrdquo criteria
Key Exposure Routes
Dust bull No nationally established public health levels
Soils bull No national public health levels for schools bull 024 ppm is the Regional Screening Level (RSL)
for a residential exposure scenario
Air bull Most important exposure route for indoor settings bull Public Health Levels can be found in ldquoPublic Health
Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Airrdquo (2009)
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Building structure Ventilation Landscaping pest
control Etc
There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
District School Occupants
bull Art amp science materials
bull Household cleaners
bull Personal care products
bull Activities awareness etc
Communication
The Healthy Schools Team
Nurses
School staff
School Board
Facilities Maintenance
Planning Contracting
Parents
Teachers
Students
Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
Includes checklists for teachers and facilities staff coordinatorrsquos guide and handouts for team members
Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
EPA Community Flag Program Staff training via webinar (in person depending on
location) Technical assistance on IAQ issues leverage EPArsquos
network of experienced scientists Technical Assistance from the Education Facilities
Clearinghouse Peer exchange networks with other schools on IAQ Asthma training and curriculum from American Lung
Association httpwwwlungorg EPArsquos Master Class Professional IAQ training webinars Detailed guidance documents on mold energy savings
plus health near roadway exposure school renovations school siting guidelines and more
Start a green cleaning program with guidance from CDPH
Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
Widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools between 1950-1979
Found in caulking window glaze FLBrsquos secondary sources paint vinyl products
bull Probable human carcinogen
bull Non-cancer health effects on the immune system endocrine system nervous system and reproductive system
bull Manufacture banned in 1979 by the Toxic Substances Control Act
Public Health Levels of PCBs in School Indoor Air (ngm3)
1-2 yr
2-3 yr
3-6 yr
6-12 yr Elementary School
12-15 yr Middle School
15-19 yr High School
19+ yr Adult
100 100 200 300 500 600 500
These public health levels were derived to serve as health protective values intended for screening purposes These levels should not be interpreted nor applied as ldquobright linerdquo or ldquonot-to-exceedrdquo criteria
Key Exposure Routes
Dust bull No nationally established public health levels
Soils bull No national public health levels for schools bull 024 ppm is the Regional Screening Level (RSL)
for a residential exposure scenario
Air bull Most important exposure route for indoor settings bull Public Health Levels can be found in ldquoPublic Health
Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Airrdquo (2009)
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
The Healthy Schools Team
Nurses
School staff
School Board
Facilities Maintenance
Planning Contracting
Parents
Teachers
Students
Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
Includes checklists for teachers and facilities staff coordinatorrsquos guide and handouts for team members
Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
EPA Community Flag Program Staff training via webinar (in person depending on
location) Technical assistance on IAQ issues leverage EPArsquos
network of experienced scientists Technical Assistance from the Education Facilities
Clearinghouse Peer exchange networks with other schools on IAQ Asthma training and curriculum from American Lung
Association httpwwwlungorg EPArsquos Master Class Professional IAQ training webinars Detailed guidance documents on mold energy savings
plus health near roadway exposure school renovations school siting guidelines and more
Start a green cleaning program with guidance from CDPH
Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
Widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools between 1950-1979
Found in caulking window glaze FLBrsquos secondary sources paint vinyl products
bull Probable human carcinogen
bull Non-cancer health effects on the immune system endocrine system nervous system and reproductive system
bull Manufacture banned in 1979 by the Toxic Substances Control Act
Public Health Levels of PCBs in School Indoor Air (ngm3)
1-2 yr
2-3 yr
3-6 yr
6-12 yr Elementary School
12-15 yr Middle School
15-19 yr High School
19+ yr Adult
100 100 200 300 500 600 500
These public health levels were derived to serve as health protective values intended for screening purposes These levels should not be interpreted nor applied as ldquobright linerdquo or ldquonot-to-exceedrdquo criteria
Key Exposure Routes
Dust bull No nationally established public health levels
Soils bull No national public health levels for schools bull 024 ppm is the Regional Screening Level (RSL)
for a residential exposure scenario
Air bull Most important exposure route for indoor settings bull Public Health Levels can be found in ldquoPublic Health
Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Airrdquo (2009)
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
Includes checklists for teachers and facilities staff coordinatorrsquos guide and handouts for team members
Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
EPA Community Flag Program Staff training via webinar (in person depending on
location) Technical assistance on IAQ issues leverage EPArsquos
network of experienced scientists Technical Assistance from the Education Facilities
Clearinghouse Peer exchange networks with other schools on IAQ Asthma training and curriculum from American Lung
Association httpwwwlungorg EPArsquos Master Class Professional IAQ training webinars Detailed guidance documents on mold energy savings
plus health near roadway exposure school renovations school siting guidelines and more
Start a green cleaning program with guidance from CDPH
Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
Widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools between 1950-1979
Found in caulking window glaze FLBrsquos secondary sources paint vinyl products
bull Probable human carcinogen
bull Non-cancer health effects on the immune system endocrine system nervous system and reproductive system
bull Manufacture banned in 1979 by the Toxic Substances Control Act
Public Health Levels of PCBs in School Indoor Air (ngm3)
1-2 yr
2-3 yr
3-6 yr
6-12 yr Elementary School
12-15 yr Middle School
15-19 yr High School
19+ yr Adult
100 100 200 300 500 600 500
These public health levels were derived to serve as health protective values intended for screening purposes These levels should not be interpreted nor applied as ldquobright linerdquo or ldquonot-to-exceedrdquo criteria
Key Exposure Routes
Dust bull No nationally established public health levels
Soils bull No national public health levels for schools bull 024 ppm is the Regional Screening Level (RSL)
for a residential exposure scenario
Air bull Most important exposure route for indoor settings bull Public Health Levels can be found in ldquoPublic Health
Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Airrdquo (2009)
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
EPA Community Flag Program Staff training via webinar (in person depending on
location) Technical assistance on IAQ issues leverage EPArsquos
network of experienced scientists Technical Assistance from the Education Facilities
Clearinghouse Peer exchange networks with other schools on IAQ Asthma training and curriculum from American Lung
Association httpwwwlungorg EPArsquos Master Class Professional IAQ training webinars Detailed guidance documents on mold energy savings
plus health near roadway exposure school renovations school siting guidelines and more
Start a green cleaning program with guidance from CDPH
Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
Widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools between 1950-1979
Found in caulking window glaze FLBrsquos secondary sources paint vinyl products
bull Probable human carcinogen
bull Non-cancer health effects on the immune system endocrine system nervous system and reproductive system
bull Manufacture banned in 1979 by the Toxic Substances Control Act
Public Health Levels of PCBs in School Indoor Air (ngm3)
1-2 yr
2-3 yr
3-6 yr
6-12 yr Elementary School
12-15 yr Middle School
15-19 yr High School
19+ yr Adult
100 100 200 300 500 600 500
These public health levels were derived to serve as health protective values intended for screening purposes These levels should not be interpreted nor applied as ldquobright linerdquo or ldquonot-to-exceedrdquo criteria
Key Exposure Routes
Dust bull No nationally established public health levels
Soils bull No national public health levels for schools bull 024 ppm is the Regional Screening Level (RSL)
for a residential exposure scenario
Air bull Most important exposure route for indoor settings bull Public Health Levels can be found in ldquoPublic Health
Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Airrdquo (2009)
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
Widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools between 1950-1979
Found in caulking window glaze FLBrsquos secondary sources paint vinyl products
bull Probable human carcinogen
bull Non-cancer health effects on the immune system endocrine system nervous system and reproductive system
bull Manufacture banned in 1979 by the Toxic Substances Control Act
Public Health Levels of PCBs in School Indoor Air (ngm3)
1-2 yr
2-3 yr
3-6 yr
6-12 yr Elementary School
12-15 yr Middle School
15-19 yr High School
19+ yr Adult
100 100 200 300 500 600 500
These public health levels were derived to serve as health protective values intended for screening purposes These levels should not be interpreted nor applied as ldquobright linerdquo or ldquonot-to-exceedrdquo criteria
Key Exposure Routes
Dust bull No nationally established public health levels
Soils bull No national public health levels for schools bull 024 ppm is the Regional Screening Level (RSL)
for a residential exposure scenario
Air bull Most important exposure route for indoor settings bull Public Health Levels can be found in ldquoPublic Health
Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Airrdquo (2009)
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Key Exposure Routes
Dust bull No nationally established public health levels
Soils bull No national public health levels for schools bull 024 ppm is the Regional Screening Level (RSL)
for a residential exposure scenario
Air bull Most important exposure route for indoor settings bull Public Health Levels can be found in ldquoPublic Health
Levels for PCBs in Indoor School Airrdquo (2009)
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
Proper ventilation
Good cleaning practices Good hygiene
Remove FLBs
A comprehensive school environmental health program
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
The business case for removing FLBrsquos
1 FLBrsquos have outlived their useful life and can leak which may result in costly clean-ups and trigger TSCA hazardous waste requirements
2 T-12 FLBrsquos no longer manufactured
3 Most schools see a 7 year ROI or less on FLB upgrades from energy savings alone
4 Should be a 1 priority for Prop 39 funds Prop 39 funding may expire within the next two years
Get FLBrsquos out
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
PCBrsquos in Building Materials QampA
Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Schools and other Buildings
PCBrsquos in School Buildings Sources Environmental Levels and Exposures
Fact sheet for schools PCBs in Caulk
Preventing Exposure to PCBrsquos in Caulking Material
EPArsquos PCBrsquos in schools research
US EPA R9 PCB Coordinator Carmen Santos Santoscarmenepagov
How to apply for Prop 39 funds
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
ldquoA stitch in time saves ninerdquo -18th Century Proverb
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
Improvements in childrens health
Decreased rates of absenteeism for children and teachers
Stronger student academic performance and participation in the classroom4
Greater teacher retention and job satisfaction and
Cost savings through energy and water conservation and efficiency and improved facility maintenance5
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Five Components
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
Started in Southern California created to address environmental health in schools
Main participants include US EPA LAUSD DTSC CA DOE non-profit organizations and schools
Functions include monthly meetings ad hoc task forces to address site or contaminant specific concerns scientific guidance on issues
Currently extending the partnership statewide
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Elements of a Successful Program
School Environmental
Health
Secure Leadership
Support
Provide Training
Develop reachable
goals
Create an action plan
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Secure Leadership Support
bull Incorporate environmental health in the school or school districtrsquos vision and mission statements
bull SEEK RECOGNITION FOR YOUR HARD WORK Apply for certificates and awards Print posters and include info on mailings to parents
News Article
Presentation
Community Event
Get more than just a signature on paper
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Develop reachable goals Itrsquos okay to start small -Adopt a fragrance free
policy -Research green
cleaning programs and present to leadership
-Fix leaks -Check classroom
humidity
-Clean out one school science lab closet
-Ask teachers to only use authorized
chemicals
-Place an anti idling sign near student pick updrop off area (free
call 626-459-4338) -Use IAQ HVAC checklist
-Store food in secure containers
-Take inventory of pesticides
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
Must overcome longstanding habits and involve stakeholders
Ask your staff what training they need leverage EPA and Education Facilities Clearinghouse for training materials and expertise
Student involvement gives a sense of ownership and accountability
Many great IAQ and asthma trigger lesson plans teach students about environmental health and involve them in the process
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Create an Action Plan
The roles responsibilities and expectations for program participants
Methods for implementing program components (eg policies procedures practices and regulations)
Available resources for program implementation and how the resources will be allocated
A timeframe for program implementation and
Performance measures for evaluating program success
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Adapt the program and make it yours
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
Peer-reviewed research based guidelines
At least 5 states including Iowa Colorado Massachusetts and Illinois have received about $1 million each to start programs
Healthy SEAT one stop shop online tool
Tools for Schools model
wwwepagovschools
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Favorite Guidance Documents
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Call to action
Small steps today =big changes tomorrow
1 You know your schools best Prioritize and start small
2 School environmental health programs are long term investments
3 Engage stakeholder build the program and join the growing network of green schools
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
Thank You Questions
Eric Canteenwala US EPA Region IX Pacific Southwest
School Environmental Health Coordinator 75 Hawthorne St
San Francisco CA 94105
Canteenwalaericepagov or (415) 972-3932
- Environmental Health in California Schools
- Agenda for today
- Schools face many environmental health challenges with real consequences
- Slide Number 4
- California School Environmental Health Laws
- Indoor Air Quality in Schools
- Whatrsquos in our air
- ldquoI am persuaded that no common air from without is so unwholesome as air within a closed room that has been often breathed and not changedrdquo
- The benefits of improved IAQ
- How much air do we need
- Tools for Schools An approach to addressing IAQ Issues
- There are two sides to the IAQ ldquocoinrdquo
- Slide Number 13
- Download the Tools for Schools Mobile App
- Resources for schools to improve School IAQ
- Indoor Air Contaminants Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBrsquos)
- Key Exposure Routes
- Best Management Practices for PCBrsquos
- The business case for removing FLBrsquos
- Useful resources and contacts for PCBrsquos
- Starting a Model Environmental Health Program at your school
- School Environmental Health Program- Benefits
- Five Components
- California Clean Green and Healthy Schools Statewide Partnership
- Elements of a Successful Program
- Secure Leadership Support
- Develop reachable goalsItrsquos okay to start small
- Provide TrainingEncourage Student Involvement
- Create an Action Plan
- Slide Number 30
- EPA resources for starting a School Environmental Health program
- Slide Number 32
- Call to action
- Thank You Questions
-
