Mold in Classrooms

EASLEY, S.C. -- An Upstate high school building will undergo a massive cleanup on Tuesday in an effort to remove mold and mildew contaminating the school, according to a release from the Pickens County School District.
The thorough wipe-down of the building will prevent 19 teachers from getting into their classrooms this week as they prepare for the first day of school on Aug. 17, said Superintendent Dr. Henry Hunt.
A meeting was scheduled at 4 p.m. Tuesday at the high school to talk about the emergency cleaning measures, Hunt said.
The fungus was found last week during routine HVAC maintenance and repair, said District Representative Julie Thompson.
The building was built in 1979, according to the release.
The cleaning process will include vacuuming all surfaces with a HEPA vacuum, wiping all surfaces with an antimicrobial cleaner, and spraying with an antimicrobial disinfectant, Thompson said. Workers will also remove ceiling tiles that show any evidence of mold or mildew and will thoroughly clean all HVAC units, she said.
Adjustments have also been made to help reduce humidity in the building, said Hunt.
"We have replaced faulty equipment in the units and in exhaust fans," Hunt said. "We have also set all thermostats at the appropriate set point and then secured them so that they cannot be adjusted," he said.
Teachers were expected to be allowed back into the classrooms on Monday, Aug. 19, according to Hunt. "That gives them only one day to prepare their rooms for students' arrival on Tuesday, but we'll assist them all we can," Hunt said. "Teachers will be involved in staff development activities and can also work in other areas on the campus," he said.
After the clean-up process is complete, air quality in the building will be tested. If a health hazard exists, Hunt said officials would not allow teachers or students to occupy the building.
"We would make a call at that time and do what's necessary to ensure the health and safety of our students and our staff," Hunt said.
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