It was a very busy day today as we were managing the strong odours being produced by the roof construction. We put a couple of Parent Bulletins out today, but I thought I'd do a final blog before the weekend. We are pretty confident that the additional equipment provided to the school will help with the strong odours,but I thought you'd appreciate the following information provided by the Board. We will continue to provide you with ongoing communication regarding the construction and any other health and safety concerns. Have a great weekend!
Roofing Repairs at the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) Schools
Why are school roofs being repaired?
Over time, the integrity of a roof changes and upgrades are needed in order to ensure a safe learning environment for the students. Over the next three years, the TDSB will be working on roofing projects in order to maintain school buildings in Toronto.
How will the roofs be repaired?
Roof repairs involve using layers of felts and hot-applied asphalt. The asphalt is usually delivered to the school as a solid and it is inserted into a roofing kettle and heated. The liquid asphalt is applied to the roof surfaces using specialized mops. As the asphalt is heated, it is likely to generate odours. At times, the odours might be strong, but are unlikely to affect health.
Are products used for roofing repairs hazardous?
Asphalt used for roofing projects is a complex mixture containing thousands of chemical compounds. The chemicals in asphalt vary depending on the source of crude oil and the type of asphalt being used. The odours generated during the heating of asphalt may contain a variety of compounds, but they tend to quickly disperse in the ambient air. They are unlikely to adversely impact on health.
I smell odours, does this mean I am being exposed to harmful fumes?
No. Some of the compounds found in asphalt have very low odour thresholds. This means that they can be detected in the air at concentrations not associated with adverse health effects. Smelling odours as a result of roofing repairs is not indicative of negative health impacts.
What measures are being taken to reduce exposures during the roofing project?
The TDSB is taking a number of measures in order to reduce exposures including:
keeping classroom windows closed
setting window air conditioners to re-circulate air
when possible conduct the work outside of school hours
In addition, the TDSB requested the roofing contractor to take the following measures:
locating the roof asphalt heating kettle away from doors, windows, and fresh air intake
ensuring all air intake openings are closed and sealed
ensuring the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is put in to recirculation mode
if necessary, provide temporary fans
request that all windows and doors remain closed
review the Material Safety Data Sheets to ensure all listed precautions are in place
Who can I call if I have additional questions?
Speak to the school's principal about the roofing work or about any concerns that you may have.
If you have a medical condition and are concerned about inhaling roofing asphalt emissions, you should discuss your concerns with your physician.
