With children across the UK returning to classrooms, the government has released £25 million of funding to fit CO2 monitors in schools, to help stop the spread of Covid-19. Over the course of the autumn term, around 300,000 monitors will be distributed to state schools across the country, allowing staff to monitor ventilation and keep fresh air circulating.

A powerful tool in the fight against Covid

CO2 monitors are used to regulating ventilation in enclosed spaces such as classrooms. When CO2 levels become too high, it means ventilation is poor and teachers will need to take action to improve the environment, by opening doors and windows to allow clean air to circulate. It’s well-known that Covid-19 spreads faster in indoor settings, where people are crowded together and there is less fresh air.

The government has been reluctant to keep schools closed, following months of disruption to children’s education throughout the pandemic and resulting lockdowns. By fitting CO2 monitors, schools can allow pupils to return whilst minimising the risk of them catching and spreading the virus.

Creating safer spaces

Although children rarely get a severe case of Covid-19, the need for self-isolation for those testing positive has seen thousands of hours of classroom time being missed. Schools are keen to undertake as many safety measures as possible to keep students at their desks, and the introduction of CO2 monitors has been roundly welcomed by those in the education profession.

We have supplied 700 Battery Powered CO2 monitors to Dundee City Council for their schools in line with the latest CIBSE guidance which calls for Non-Dispersive Infra-Red (NDIR) CO2 sensors with visual indication of carbon dioxide levels.

A more positive outlook

Battery-powered CO2 monitors, such as those manufactured by Titan Products, could also be used in other indoor settings. Pubs, bars, restaurants and shops could all follow the example being set by schools, by installing their own CO2 monitors to make their premises safer. With such precautions in place, the UK stands a better chance of halting a new spike in cases this winter.

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