School Closes for the Semester Due to High Levels of Benzene and Carbon Dioxide

A school in Wyoming has reportedly been closed for the entire semester due to indoor air quality (IAQ) safety concerns. According to media reports, students and faculty complained of gas-like odors at the end of the last school year, prompting an investigation.

The school and town are surrounded by an oil field. Air samples taken in May found high carbon dioxide levels in the school, while one classroom had benzene levels many times over what is considered to be safe. In response to the test results, students are being bused to schools in another area for the rest of this semester.

Breathing high levels of benzene can cause drowsiness, dizziness, rapid heart rate, headaches, tremors, confusion and unconsciousness, while breathing very high levels of benzene can result in death. Long-term exposure of benzene can cause major problems in blood, and the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has determined that it can cause cancer in humans. It can also cause excessive bleeding and can affect the immune system, increasing the chance for infection. Exposure to elevated levels of carbon dioxide can cause headaches, confusion, dizziness and loss of consciousness.

An old well near the school has been sealed and a vapor extraction system has been installed in the school building. More recent air quality tests have reportedly been conducted with normal carbon dioxide readings and much lower levels of benzene found.

“Fortunately, air sampling discovered the problems so students and faculty could be removed from the facility until the situation could be properly addressed,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “This case is an important reminder to us all that indoor air quality needs to be a priority. If a problem is suspected, testing the air quality can be essential for protecting people’s health and safety.” 

EMSL Analytical, Inc. helps to identify IAQ issues in schools and other types of buildings with comprehensive air testing services, air monitoring equipment, test kits and all of the sampling supplies necessary to submit samples.

To learn more about air quality or other environmental testing services and monitoring equipment, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email  info@EMSL.com .

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical, Inc. is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental, indoor air quality and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.
 

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail