Carbon monoxide detectors not required in schools-- yet - DC Breaking Local News Weather Sports FOX 5 WTTG

After nearly 50 people were exposed to carbon monoxide at an Atlanta public school on Monday, many people are wondering why schools don't have carbon monoxide detectors.  Currently, there is no mandate to have the detectors in school buildings.

Insurance commissioner Ralph Hudgens said issue is one that should be examined by the Georgia Assembly.  The legislature goes into session at the State Capitol next month.  Hudgens says he'll ask the general assembly to look at the issue to determine if detectors should be mandated in both schools and nursing homes, at least in places like boiler rooms, where Monday's leak is believed to have originated.  

"I think at minimum there ought to be a carbon monoxide detector in the room where the open flame is because that is what creates carbon monoxide is a flame," said Hudgens.

The boiler at Finch Elementary School was examined last year, and it was not due for another inspection until 2013.  Hudgens says that inspection timeframe is consistent with national codes.

Georgia State School Superintendent John Barge told FOX 5 in a written statement that any measure to make students safer than they already are has his full support.