Ontario Schools to implement new vaping detection technology through TekStart and Cortex Design partnership
In response to the Ontario Government's initiative to address cell phone use and vaping in schools, TekStart and Cortex Design have announced a collaboration to enhance student safety.
The pair have developed the AirStart Air5, a new solution designed to monitor and manage vaping in school washrooms. This initiative is part of the government’s $30 million (CAD) investment in security upgrades and vape detectors outlined in the 2024 Budget.
The Ontario Government’s investment reflects concerns about the health risks associated with vaping among students. Recent data indicates a significant rise of students in Ontario are experimenting with vaping, posing potential health risks. s
Addressing Vaping with Technology and Design
TekStart, a Toronto-based technology company, has developed the AirStart family of vape and smoke detectors integrated with the SenseStart cloud-based platform. These detectors are designed to help school administrators identify vaping incidents and respond quickly to emergencies in washrooms. The AirStart Air5 is a key part of this suite, providing schools with a tool to monitor air quality and detect vaping activities.
Cortex Design, an engineering and design firm, has collaborated with TekStart to ensure that the AirStart Air5 is both functional and user-friendly. The partnership aims to provide a solution that not only detects vaping but also alerts school staff to emergencies, enabling swift responses to any issues.
“We are thrilled to partner with Cortex Design on this vital project. Our technology, combined with Cortex’s design expertise, will provide schools with the tools they need to tackle vaping effectively and maintain a safe environment for all students,” said Howard Pakosh, CEO of TekStart.
Vaping has become a growing concern in Ontario schools, with surveys indicating that nearly 29.4% of students in grades 7 to 12 have tried vaping, and 8.1% vape nicotine daily. Despite regulations limiting nicotine content, many adolescents are using unregulated products with high nicotine concentrations, which increases the risks of addiction and health complications. Schools are working to enforce vaping bans and ensure a safe, drug-free environment for students.
The AirStart Air5 system is part of the broader effort to make school washrooms vape-free spaces. By combining detection technology with support systems, the initiative aims to reduce vaping incidents and ensure that students have access to a safer environment.
“Our team is committed to creating solutions that enhance human experience and quality of life. This partnership with TekStart allows us to apply our design and engineering skills to a pressing issue, ultimately supporting the well-being of students across Ontario,” said Dylan Horvath.
