Voice gives guarded welcome to wi-fi investigation, 15 October 2007
General Secretary’s speech to Voice Annual Conference, August 2007 and notes
Briefing to Press Association on wi-fi, 22 April 2007
Philip Parkin, General Secretary of the Professional Association of Teachers (Voice), said: "I have concerns about the health of both pupils and staff.
"I am concerned that so many wireless networks are being installed in schools and colleges without any understanding of the possible long-term consequences.
"The proliferation of wireless networks could be having serious implications for the health of some staff and pupils without the cause being recognised."
"I am not saying there is a danger, but I have enough concern to ask for it to be investigated.
"There are huge commercial pressures which may be why there has not yet been any significant action.
"I am writing to the Education Secretary to ask for a full scientific investigation into the effects of wi-fi networks in schools." (Word)
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Briefing given to TES for article on 15/12/06 on wireless computer networks and electro-sensitivity
Voice General Secretary Philip Parkin said: " In the light of what has happened to one of our members [who has developed sensitivity to electro-magnetic radiation], I am concerned that so many wireless networks are being installed in school and colleges without any real understanding of the possible long-term consequences.
"There are some serious questions that need to be answered. If the possible effects on some staff and pupils are not understood, then what impact could this have on teaching and learning? Are any effects greater on younger, growing children? Might exposure at a young age increase electro-sensitivity?
"Are the illnesses experienced by some staff - chronic fatigue, migraine, stress-related illnesses - made worse by such networks or other electrical equipment without people realising?
"The proliferation of wireless networks could be having serious implications for the health of some staff and pupils with the cause going unrecognised.
"Clearly some people may be more electro-sensitive than others but that doesn’t mean nothing should be done. This is new technology and we don’t know the long-term impact. I’m not saying this technology - which has many educational benefits - should be banned, but more research and proper safeguards are needed.
"Electro-sensitivity is recognised as a serious condition in Sweden but not in this country or the rest of Europe. It may be a bigger problem than is officially recognised here."
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Contacts (for further information/if you have been affected): General Secretary Philip Parkin (philipparkin@pat.org.uk) or Voice Press Office (pressoffice@pat.org.uk) on 01332 372 337.
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