Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Homeowners are encouraged to test their homes for radon gas
Ottawa – This winter Ottawa Public Health (OPH), as a member of the Ontario Radon Working Group, is encouraging residents to test their homes for the presence of radon gas. Radon is a naturally-occurring radioactive gas that is colourless and odourless - you can’t see, smell, or taste it. Radon is produced by the decay of uranium found in soil, rock or water, and can enter buildings through cracks in foundation floors and walls, gaps in service pipes, open floor drains, or any other area of exposed soil.
Long-term exposure to elevated levels of radon in the home increases your chances of developing lung cancer. According to the World Health Organization, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.
It is important to note that most homes will contain a background level of radon which is not considered dangerous; however, when average concentrations exceed Canada’s guidelines, it is recommended that action be taken to correct the problem. To ensure your home is safe, it is recommended that homeowners:
- Test their home in the lowest lived-in area of the dwelling. Generally, the highest concentrations of radon are found in basements and in the lower levels of homes. Testing should be done over a period of three months using a do-it-yourself test kit purchased from your local hardware store or OPH. You can also hire a professional to test the level of radon gas in your home.
- Take corrective actions if radon levels are found to be above Canada’s recommended level of 200 Becquerels per cubic metre (200 Bq/m3).
Guidelines for safe radon gas levels are available on OPH and Health Canada’s websites.
Recommendations to correct high levels of radon gas in the home include:
- Installing ventilation and sealing entry points in the building foundation.
- Contacting a radon professional to assist. The Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program certifies radon professionals.
OPH is a member of the Ontario Radon Working Group along with Public Health Ontario and 19 Ontario health units with the support of Health Canada.
For more information on radon gas and the impacts on human health, and where to obtain a radon testing kit, visit ottawa.ca/health or call the Ottawa Public Health Information Line at 613-580-6744 (TTY: 613-580-9656). You can also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter (@OttawaHealth), our Blog and now on Pinterest.
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