Letter to BCI Families Regarding the School’s Geothermal System

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 18, 2024

Dear Brantford Collegiate Institute and Vocational School Families,

I’m writing to inform you of a situation that arose during recent construction work at our school. Over the summer, work was scheduled to repair the school’s geothermal system, located in the sports field at the rear of the school. Low levels of hydrogen sulfide gas were detected during this work. 

There are no immediate health risks to staff, students, or the community. The Grand Erie District School Board is working with the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, Brant County Health Unit, an environmental consultant, and Brantford Fire Services to continue monitoring the levels of hydrogen sulfide gas. 

After thorough assessments, a small portion of the system is being decommissioned to eliminate future risks and work will begin on September 20. We do not anticipate any significant impact on day-to-day school operations and are committed to ensuring minimal disruption. During this process, as a precautionary measure, real-time monitoring of the levels of hydrogen sulfide will take place on-site during the decommissioning.

Once the work is complete, Grand Erie Facilities staff will restore the grass field before use. Based on availability, we have made alternate arrangements for outdoor space at nearby locations.

We will continue to inform you of any updates. If you have any questions, please contact me at the school at 519-759-3210 ext. 271000.

Sincerely,

Michael Degroote
Principal, Brantford Collegiate Institute and Vocational School