A report late last month in the Toronto Star says the Ministry of Education is monitoring 360 schools for Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete, also known as Siporex.
Siporex is the material used in the construction of the Ontario Science Centre which was abruptly closed last month due to structural concerns.
This material was used in construction from the 1950s to the 1980s.
The report highlights that eight out of 42 schools in the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario (CDSBEO), including Sacred Heart of Jesus in Lanark Highlands, St. Joseph in Gananoque, St. Luke in Smiths Falls, and St. Mary in Carleton Place. All are regularly monitored for any potential issues by the board.
The Board is reassuring families that they are on top of the issue through a blog post found here.
The Morrisburg Leader reports the UCDSB is monitoring 18 out of 78 schools in their board, but they have not identified the schools. They note that the schools are monitored monthly for issues like delamination and cracks. If a problem is found, action is taken.
RAAC panels are lightweight, highly porous, and can deteriorate if not properly maintained. They have a lifespan of about 30 years.
