Progress being made with CARPHA recommendations

Basseterre, St. Kitts (SKNIS): Extensive work is currently being carried out throughout the Basseterre High School to meet CARPHA’s recommendations in ensuring that the health and safety requirements of the staff and students are met.

In the Biology Laboratory, outlets over the sinks have been sealed and paint odour is being removed through open ventilation during the day and other methods at night.

Auditorium drapes have been removed and will be replaced and under the stage has been cleaned and inspected. The air-conditioning units have also been cleaned. These will be inspected and cleaned every term.

There has been an installation of intake and extractor fans in the Chemistry Laboratory. All underground drains below the floor of this lab have been condemned and an alternative drainage system has been installed. The chimney hat has also been replaced.

The entire sewage system at the Western campus has gone through a Blue Flush test and was reported negative for seepage.

Installation of concrete roofs is in progress which will prevent leakages. The roof will go through a process of wetting to ensure there is no further leakage.

Water-damaged books in the Integrated Science Lab have been discarded.

In the Agriculture Science Lab, tables and cupboards have been sanded and treated.

Upwind and external sources of pollution have been investigated. While here, there were no concerns identified at the pesticide depot.

After all recommendations have been done the school will be cleaned before is reopens. Regular schedule for maintenance of the school environment and removal of solid waste at least three times a week will be included in the maintenance plan.

Works are estimated to be completed by August 11 for CARPHA’s return on August 13.