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There is something in the air at NYSUT posted: August 1, 2005 Union members from a dozen states and the Virgin Islands attended the American Federation of Teachers Health and Safety Indoor Air Quality Training program at NYSUT headquarters, near Albany from July 18-22 and learned valuable techniques for making their facilities healthier for staff and students. Attendees spent a week receiving formal training and discussing air quality issues at their schools ranging from mold formation to improper storage of chemicals. Sessions were moderated by health and safety specialists from NYSUT, AFT, United Federation of Teachers and New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, as well as a private environmental consultant. “We want a safe and healthy learning environment for our students,” said Carolyn Martin of the Syracuse Teachers Association. One of the highlights of the program was a July 21 trip to an elementary school in Albany that is suffering from indoor air quality issues caused by water intrusion. Attendees received a hands-on opportunity to wander the building looking for problem areas and to take readings with air-sampling equipment provided by NYSUT and AFT. “Creating a healthy indoor environment is critical to student achievement and to maintaining a high level of staff satisfaction,” said NYSUT Health and Safety Specialist Wendy Hord. “The goal of this program was to provide attendees with the knowledge and experience they need to return to their educational facilities and identify and correct pollution problems.” For more information on health and safety, visit www.nysut.org. |
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