Radon alert sounded at Halkirk school
HALKIRK primary school is one of five in the Highlands which has been found to have high levels of radon gas.
The discovery was made as part of an ongoing monitoring programme. Halkirk was the only one affected in Caithness. Castletown primary was also tested but found to be below the action level.
Checks are being carried out by council officers to identify and implement any immediate steps that can be taken to reduce radon levels. Arrangements are also being made to engage a specialist consultant to supervise detailed surveys, and recommend long term mitigation measures to reduce radon.
Highland Council’s director of education, culture and sport Hugh Fraser said: “We will take action to ensure the radon levels in these schools are reduced below the legal limits. We have been advised that the risks to staff and pupils are very low.”
The schools will remain open while the work is being carried out.
See Wednesday’s Caithness Courier for full story.