New Brunswick seeks expert opinion on use of HEPA filters in schools to fight COVID-19

New Brunswick has quietly updated its guidance on ventilation in public schools to say high-efficiency particulate. or HEPA, filters may be a way to improve air quality during the pandemic.

But Education Minister Dominic Cardy says there's been no change in policy regarding the use of in-class HEPA filters.

The province plans to hire an outside expert to review the "competing science" surrounding the issue and provide recommendations, he told reporters Thursday.

"I'll bring back a timeline for that process in the coming days."

He did not say how much the review will cost.

Sixty schools in New Brunswick have no integrated mechanical ventilation systems, as of September. Unlike the 234 schools in the province that do have integrated ventilation systems, these schools must rely instead on opening doors and windows to circulate air.

Air quality tests conducted at these schools over several months were, however, "within the safe range and did not demonstrate reason for health concerns," Department of Education spokesperson Flavio Nienow has said.

Other provinces, such as Ontario, spent millions on HEPA filters for schools before classes started last fall.

On Nov. 25, New Brunswick's guidance on ventilation in schools, which is available online, was updated.

It now states: "HEPA filter devices reduce particles in the air and could be used in rooms with poor air circulation.

"This should be considered on a case by case basis."

No public announcement was made.

The previous guidelines on ventilation, dated Oct. 29, made no mention of HEPA filters.

In September, during a back-to-school Q&A hosted by CBC New Brunswick, Cardy said there was no evidence the HEPA air filters work and suggested they could make things worse.