High carbon dioxide levels cause sickness in Dial

By Hayley Burgess
Staff Writer

The Health, Safety and Environment Committee at their Feb. 22 meeting in Dial discussed topics ranging from the air quality in Dial to healthy food on campus to the pick-up of hazardous waste materials.

The most important item on the agenda was the air quality in Dial. Two months ago, professors started complaining of coughing, shortness of breath and headaches in room 251. Taylor Fields, facility maintenance supervisor from the Physical Plant, was at the meeting to report on what was found while testing the room.

“The carbon dioxide level was high because there was not enough ventilation in the room,” Fields said. “We are going to replace the entire exhaust fan, which should be coming in very soon. The latest would be the first week in March.”

The committee also discussed getting healthier foods in the vending machines on campus. Members talked with Chip Johnson of Pocket Change Vending who wants 20 percent of the products in the vending machines to be a healthy choice.

Also, the committee discussed better ways to have the hazardous waste materials picked up and brought up a budget transfer of funds for it to be more efficient.

They also discussed the concern about the sidewalk safety at the Chancellor’s house due to the tripping hazard that it presents. That issue is on the repair and renovation list and will be fixed at a later time.

Finally, the issue of crosswalks and concrete islands for a safe haven while crossing five lanes of traffic on Odum Road. was raised. The hope is to cut down on the accidents without blocking off the businesses, which is illegal to do. The islands would be wheelchair accessible.

The committee will next meet on March 26. Dr. Richard Vela is chair of the committee.