Why Radon Testing Matters
Radon is a radioactive gas that naturally occurs in soil and rock, and it can accumulate indoors, posing serious health risks. Testing for radon is the only way to determine if your home has dangerous levels. But once you have your test results, how do you interpret them? Understanding your radon levels is crucial for making informed decisions about your home’s safety.
WHO Radon Guidelines
The World Health Organization (WHO) measure radon levels in becquerels per cubic meter (Bq/m³) and has established safety thresholds:
- Below 100 Bq/m³: No immediate action is required, but periodic testing is recommended.
- 200–600 Bq/m³: Take steps to reduce radon levels within two years.
- Above 600 Bq/m³: Mitigation should be done as soon as possible.
Even if your home’s radon level is slightly below 200 Bq/m³, it’s still advisable to monitor changes over time. According to (WHO) World Health Organization, the acceptable level of Radon is 100 Becquerel, however it has been noted that the beginning of where Radon can have an effect on the human body is at 78 Becquerel.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Radon Testing
There are two primary types of radon tests:
- Short-term tests (2–7 days): Provide a quick snapshot but may not be fully reliable due to fluctuations in radon levels.
- Long-term tests (90+ days): Recommended by Health Canada for accurate readings, as they measure radon exposure over an extended period.
If your short-term test shows high radon levels, follow up with a long-term test before taking action.
What to Do If Your Radon Levels Are High
If your test results exceed 100 Bq/m³, professional radon mitigation is the next step. A C-NRPP-certified radon mitigation professional can assess your home and install a system to lower radon levels. Common mitigation methods include:
- Sub-slab depressurization: A venting system that redirects radon gas safely outside.
- Sealing cracks and openings: Helps reduce radon entry points in your home.
- Improving ventilation: Increasing airflow can sometimes help lower radon levels.
Next Steps: Protect Your Home and Family
✅ If your radon level is below 200 Bq/m³, retest every few years and keep an eye on seasonal fluctuations.
✅ If your radon level is above 200 Bq/m³, start planning for mitigation within two years.
✅ If your radon level is above 600 Bq/m³, take immediate action by contacting a professional.
Don’t wait until radon becomes a serious health risk—take control of your indoor air quality today!
