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School Drinking Water Should Be Subject to a Nationwide Audit, Demands Union

By Iain S Bruce

Introduction

SCHOOL drinking water should be subject to a nationwide audit to safeguard children’s health, a powerful teaching union has demanded. The call came as a bitter dispute over contaminated water at a Scottish secondary school escalated and follows a World Health Organisation study of water quality in Scottish public buildings last year which revealed that 12% will breach standards set by the European Commission’s drinking water directive to be enforced from December.

Contaminated Water at Bellahouston Academy

Long-term concern over the quality of pupils’ drinking water was crystallised by allegations that the supply to Bellahouston Academy in Glasgow’s southside contains “unacceptable” levels of copper, posing a severe hazard to pupils’ health. Teaching union officials had threatened to take legal action unless the authority addressed a problem many believe is now set to confront hundreds of schools.

“There are major concerns over the safety of Bellahouston Academy’s water and the danger this poses to everyone at the school. Staff members have made repeated representations over a period of several months and are extremely disappointed by the education department’s failure to address the issue effectively,” said Willie Hart, for the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS).

National Survey Demands

The union’s demand follows eight months of wrangling over Glasgow City Council’s perceived indifference to repeated complaints about copper contamination in the water supply serving 1100 pupils. Calling for the prioritisation of any necessary remedies and medical screenings for those affected, the EIS is also demanding a comprehensive review of the supplies to every Glasgow school.

“New research revealing problems with drinking water seems to appear every day and we must make it clear from the outset that risking children’s health will simply not be tolerated,” said Eleanor Coner, convener of the Scottish Parent Teacher Council. “There has never been an audit on drinking water in schools but obviously, after previous events with Glasgow water, I would think it would be something that the local authority should be thinking about.”

Response from Glasgow City Council

Officials maintain that, with warning signs in every lavatory and free bottled water all round, the matter must already be “common knowledge”, but parent groups have fiercely condemned this policy. “After months of speculation and rumours about a major health risk, discovering that parents have not received so much as a letter beggars belief,” said Coner. “They must have their reasons, but the way this affair seems to have been conducted is simply outrageous.”

Conclusion

A nationwide audit of school drinking water is essential to ensure the health and safety of children. The current dispute at Bellahouston Academy highlights the urgent need for action. The teaching union and parent groups are demanding a comprehensive survey of drinking water supplies in all Glasgow schools, with the aim of identifying and rectifying any issues. Authorities must prioritize the safety of children and take proactive measures to prevent further incidents of contamination. Ultimately, the health and well-being of students must always be the top priority.


Hotels and the Importance of Water Quality

The issue of water quality is not limited to schools but also extends to various establishments, including hotels. Ensuring the safety and cleanliness of the water supply is crucial for the well-being of guests.

Water Quality in Hotels

Hotels, with their large number of guests, must pay close attention to the quality of the drinking water provided. Ensuring that the water is safe and free from contaminants is vital to prevent any health hazards or incidents.

The Impact of Contaminated Water in Hotels

If the water quality is compromised in hotels, it can lead to a variety of health issues for guests, ranging from minor discomforts to more serious illnesses. Contaminated water may cause gastrointestinal problems, skin irritations, or even more severe concerns in individuals with weakened immune systems.

Maintaining and Monitoring Water Quality

Hotel management should establish regular maintenance and monitoring procedures to ensure the quality of the water supply. This includes regular testing and analysis of the water, as well as maintaining proper filtration and purification systems.

Guest Safety as a Priority

The safety and well-being of guests should always be a top priority for hotels. By investing in water quality management and implementing stringent protocols, hotels can provide a safe and enjoyable experience for their guests.

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