Debate over wi-fi safety has spilled onto the pages of the B.C. Teachers' Federation newsmagazine Teacher. It published several articles late last year and early this year, beginning with a two-part series critical of the use of wireless Internet signals.

Health Canada has concluded, based on scientific evidence, that "exposure to low-level radiofrequency energy, such as that from wi-fi equipment, is not dangerous to the public," but some skeptics aren't convinced it's safe, particularly for young, developing brains.

The articles, entitled "Should wi-fi be used in classrooms" by Lynn Quiring, ran in the newsmagazine's September and October editions. Quiring, a registered pharmacist and clinical nutritionist with a degree in naturopathic medicine, writes: "There are countless reports and studies raising caution signals about the effects on human health from exposure to cellphone radiation, cellphone towers, wi-fi and wireless technology in general. The fact remains that wireless technology is a potential carcinogen. So was tobacco. So was asbestos. So were X-rays." He warns families to not let their children use cellphones, live in an area near a cellphone tower, not to use wireless Internet connections or cordless phones in their homes. "Ask questions regarding the use of wi-fi in the school. Object to the installation of such equipment if and when the possibility is discussed," he advised.

Quiring's articles sparked objections, particularly from science and technology teachers, according to Teacher editor David Denyer. "Most of the writers were science and technology teachers who were unhappy with the speculative nature of views on the possible health effects of electromagnetic radiation. The inconclusive nature of the research that has been done so far has undoubtedly been troubling a number of parents whose children are in a school where wi-fi is being used," Denyer told the Courier.

The newsmagazine published rebuttal articles in its January/February issue.

Surrey information and media literacy coordinator Kevin Amboe wrote Quiring's article "depicts unfounded concern without scientific support."

"Removing a valuable education tool from schools is unfounded," he continued. "I am making an informed decision based on a lack of any evidence of risk to students or staff that I will continue to use wi-fi as a tool to support student learning and teachers."

Susan Lambert, BCTF president, said there are no recommendations from the executive on the subject and no resolutions on the floor of their coming annual general meeting. She said teachers' opinions on the subject are divided. "There isn't a groundswell of 'let's ban technology'--none at all. In fact it's more the opposite. The great majority of teachers want to have access and want it in their classrooms so students can have access," she added.

noconnor@vancourier.com

Twitter: @Naoibh