Radon is a radioactive gas that is formed naturally by the decomposition of uranium in soil, water and rock. Radon is a colorless, odourless, tasteless gas that is slowly released from the ground, water and some building materials. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer (after smoking) and is rarely determined to be the culprit.
Radon is more of a concern in buildings as opposed to outdoors, as buildings are typically an enclosed space. Radon levels fluctuate seasonally, but are typically higher in the winter months. As buildings are typically sealed at night (less outdoor air intake), radon levels are higher at night than during the day.
Health Canada recommends remedial action be taken if the annual radon concentration in your home or building is greater than 200 Becquerels per cubic metre (200 Bq/m³).
There are a couple of options to determine radon concentrations:
- Short-Term Detectors (2-7 days); and
- Long-Term Detectors (1-12 months)
Since radon concentrations vary over time, the Long-Term Detectors provide a more accurate reading of radon levels in your home or building.