Wednesday 25 April 2007

Wireless internet 'poses health risk'

Wireless networks in schools may pose a health risk to children and staff. The Professional Association of Teachers has written to Education Secretary Alan Johnson to demand an inquiry into the effects of the technology, which is being installed in classrooms across the country.

According to the BBC the long-term effects of wireless technology have not been investigated. Philip Parkin, the leader of the PAT commented, "I am concerned that so many wireless networks are being installed in schools and colleges without any understanding of the possible long-term consequences. I am not saying there is a danger, but I have enough concern to ask for it to be investigated."

The union highlights the case of Michael Bevington, a classics teacher at Stowe school in Buckinghamshire. According to the union, Mr Bevington "had never had any problems before the wi-fi. When it was put into his classroom he suffered nausea, blinding headaches and a lack of concentration. When the school removed the wi-fi his condition improved".

The Health Protection Agency points to the low power levels of such wi-fi networks, compared to mobile phones.

Worrying

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