School ParticlesSchools have a very high occupant density, special design features, and a special range of activities that can generate unique health issues. These are reflected in the assemblage of particles collected by tapelift from surfaces in the classroom. ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Health Complaints: Why Schools Are Different ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() (Click here for more images of paper fiber.) Glass fiber from acoustic ceiling tiles are a major cause of health complaints in schools. The article attached here provides background information ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Cleaning often involves the use of strong chemicals or chemicals that oxidize to form detrimental chemicals. Cleaning leaves particle tracers. ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Bus and traffic emissions can be a problem at times associated with student pickup or delivery. These emissions leave particle markers. These emissions can also be a problem for school bus drivers if they don't shut off their engines while waiting for students to board or unload at school. ![]() ![]() Cosmetics are generally not a health issue but may provided insight into exposures for sensitive individuals. High levels of cosmetics are evident more at the secondary school level or associated with a teachers desk or the teachers lounge. ![]() ![]() Click here for more photos in this category The presence of dry-erase ink indicates exposure to the solvents used in those pens. Black dry-erase ink can be confused with combustion residues. ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Many millions of dollars have been spent unnecessarily on mold remediation when mold was never the problem. If mold was all they looked for then mold was all they found. ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Sawdust can be a problem in wood shop or from construction activities in schools. Some woods contain toxins but all wood sawdust can be an irritant to the skin and respiratory system. ![]() ![]() Click here for more photos in this category ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |