Radon is a naturally-occurring, radioactive gas created from the decay of uranium minerals present in rock, soil and water. Indoors, it is not naturally-occurring, you cannot taste, smell or see radon.
Why is radon dangerous?
Radon is radioactive. Outdoors there is little danger because radon is diluted in the open air. Indoors radon is trapped and becomes concentrated in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces resulting in a significant increased health risk, especially lung cancer.
What are the symptoms of radon poisoning?
There are no immediate symptoms to exposure to radon at low, moderate or high levels. Symptoms of illness as a result of radon poisoning include those of lung cancer or stomach cancers. If you are concerned about your health, contact your doctor or health official who is knowledgeable about the effects of radon.
Can you see, taste or smell radon?
No, the only way to know if radon is present in your indoor environment is to test.
Additional Information
Why should I test for radon?
Protect your health! We rely on public health authorities to tell us the right actions to take for our health. The reality is, ultimately we are the ones responsible to take action. We have a duty to protect our indoor air quality for ourselves and everyone who comes into our environment - including pets.
What is the differences between a short-term and long-term radon test?
A short-term radon test is a screening test to get fast results. An example of this is to get an idea how much might be held in escrow for a real estate transaction. A long-term test is recommended in order to make a mitigation decision. Long-term testing is a minimum of three months and will provide an average radon concentration which can be compared to the threshold defined in the national guideline.
How long should I test for?
A long-term test of a minimum of three months is recommended for accuracy. Testing over the heating season is best, when doors and windows are kept closed.
I got my report, what does it mean?
On your report there is a lot of information: detector number(s), location information, and your results. The main bit of information to look at is your Average Radon Concentration. This is the radon level recorded during the time the test kit was deployed. Next to that number there will be a +/- number called the standard deviation. This number is the variance in which your radon level may have fluctuated. It will always be a small number and have little to no impact on your average radon concentration and any decisions on fixing a radon level should be made solely on your average level.
The US and Canada have each set a guideline for exposure to radon. In the US it is 4.0 pCi/l (picocuries per litre). In Canada the radon guideline above when action should be taken is 200 Bq/m3 (becquerels per cubic metre).
I have tested and my radon levels are high, what do I do now?
Not to worry, we are here to help. Please contact us to discuss your results and mitigation options with one of our C-NRPP professionals.
When is the best time to test for radon?
Anytime is a good time to test. The best time is during the winter or heating season when doors and windows are closed. This will give an indication of your environment’s indoor air quality.
How often should I test for radon?
Health Canada recommends radon testing be performed every two years.
