What Are Safe Radon Levels in Canadian Homes?
Radon gas is a silent threat to indoor air quality, and understanding its levels is vital for protecting your home and family. This guide will help you decode radon gas levels and clarify when it’s time to take action.
What Are Radon Levels and What Do They Mean?
Radon levels are measured in becquerels per cubic meter (Bq/m³). A becquerel (Bq) represents one radioactive decay per second. When radon decays, it releases radioactive particles that can damage lung tissue and increase the risk of lung cancer.
In Canada, radon levels are categorized as:
Safe Levels: Below 200 Bq/m³. Health Canada considers these levels acceptable, though the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends reducing radon if levels exceed 100 Bq/m³.
Actionable Levels: Between 200 and 600 Bq/m³. At this stage, homeowners should seriously consider mitigating radon to prevent long-term health risks.
Dangerously High Levels: Above 600 Bq/m³. Immediate action is required to reduce exposure, as prolonged contact significantly increases the risk of lung cancer.
How High Can Radon Levels Get?
According to the 2024 Cross-Canada Radon Survey, the highest residential radon level recorded was an alarming 32,321 Bq/m³. This reading highlights the need for testing, as levels can vary drastically depending on geographic location, home structure, and ventilation.
Why Should You Take Action?
Radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Long-term exposure to elevated radon levels increases this risk exponentially. For instance:
At 200 Bq/m³, your lifetime risk of lung cancer is approximately 1 in 100.
At 800 Bq/m³, the risk rises to 1 in 20.
How to Detect Radon Levels in Your Home
DIY Long-Term Test Kits: Available online or at hardware stores for $40 to $150. These tests provide accurate results over 90 days.
Short-Term Tests: Professionals like Radon86 can conduct a quick 15-minute assessment for free, offering immediate guidance.
When Should You Remediate?
If radon levels exceed 200 Bq/m³, mitigation is recommended. Professionals use methods like sub-slab depressurization to effectively lower levels. Costs for mitigation systems typically range from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on your home’s size and layout.
Takeaway
Radon is an invisible danger, but its risks are manageable. Testing your home is the first step. Whether your levels are moderate or dangerously high, timely action can protect your family’s health. Don’t wait—test, mitigate, and breathe easy.