Recently, Health Canada has lowered the safe level of radon exposure from 800 Bq/m3 to 200 Bq/m3. Homes that may have been deemed safe in the past may now require remedial measures. This may be of particular importance to Albertans as very little testing has been done here. All homes are expected to have some level of Radon.

         Radon is a radioactive gas caused by the natural breakdown of uranium. In low levels radon is not a concern, but exposure to high levels is an increased risk of developing lung cancer.

         Radon can enter you home through cracks and voids in the foundation, around sump pumps and floor drains. I some cases high levels of radon have been found in ground water from wells.

         The good news is Radon exposure can be controlled by a skilled homeowner or professional contactor. Repairs can vary from simply caulking cracks in the concrete to installing vents pipes extending from under the slab to the roof.

           Radon is  colourless, odourless and tasteless. The only way to determine radon levels in your home is to have a Radon Test.. Depending on the type of test it can take anywhere from 2-3 days to 1-2 years. Longer tests are preferred. This service is offered by many professional home inspection firms.

 

 

 For more information contact Health Canada or Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp.