K-12 Schools Energy Efficiency/PCB Training webinar
Mark your calendar for an upcoming webinar presented by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for New York State schools focused on the benefits of upgrading and retrofitting lighting in schools, especially those that still use T-12 fluorescent lamps.
Older lighting technology such as T-12 fluorescent lamps should be the first to be upgraded. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, “switching from T-12 to T-8 lighting with electronic ballast can reduce light energy by 20 to 30 percent.” In some instances fewer T-8 lamps can achieve the same illumination of T-12s and increase the color rendering index, which increases the light quality. T-8s also run much cooler which reduces air conditioning costs. Please note that after July 2012 T-12 lamps will no longer be manufactured and consequently the costs for servicing these lamps will increase.
The webinar will also cover the dangers of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in light ballasts in schools. PCBs were used extensively in school building materials (e.g., caulk/sealant, lighting fixture ballast, etc) from the 1950's until their ban in 1978. Off-gassing of PCBs into the indoor air of a school has been identified as a potentially significant exposure route. PCB residues on surfaces can also contribute to exposure. PCBs are persistent bioaccumulative toxins and are designated as probable human carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. PCBs can also cause various non-cancer health effects including adverse effects on the immune system, liver and on reproductive/developmental outcomes.
What: This webinar provides an opportunity for participants to learn about the benefits of upgrading and retrofitting lighting in schools; and dangers of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in light ballasts in schools.
When: 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m., Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Who: School officials such as directors of school facilities, facilities managers, head custodians, health and safety coordinators, and other key school facilities personnel.
For more information, or to register for the webinar, visit http://www.cleanairinfo.com/energyefficiencytraining/.
