Álftanesskóli – renovations
Garðabær follows specific procedures if mold is suspected in housing or municipal structures. Engineering firm Cowi (formerly Mannvit) is available to advise on sampling, remediation, and actions.
Case history at Álftanesskóli
1) Samples taken at Álftanesskóli
On Monday, January 9, 2023, staff and parents were presented with the results of sampling the school premises due to the possibility of mold damage in a designated area at Álftanesskóli. In accordance with the measures that have already been taken at the town's schools, it was decided to entrust the engineering firm Mannviti (now Cowi) with taking samples for examination.
Results showed that there was mold and moisture damage in the former staff room, which previously housed, among other things, a teacher's studio. It had recently housed a school nurse's office, but the space had not been used for any other purpose for about two years. The mold can be traced to the exterior cladding, which is only present in this area of the school.
Reports
2) Project status
The area in question was closed to ensure that the risk of infection could be prevented in the hallway and surrounding areas. Further sampling was completed on January 17, 2023 at the school.
3) Next steps
Further sampling was undertaken to assess whether moisture problems are present. The results of these measurements are expected to be available 4-5 weeks after sampling.
Mannvit is working with the municipal authorities on an action and cost plan for repairs to the school. The approved 2023 budget includes funds for renovations to the municipal institutions' premises.
Information about the project is provided by:
Anna María Skúladóttir, principal of Álftanesskóli,annaskula@alftanesskoli.is
Edda Björg Sigurðardóttir, head of department of primary and secondary music schools,eddabsig@gardabaer.is
Guðbjörg Brá Gísladóttir, Director of the Environmental Division,gudbjorgbra@gardabaer.is