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Radon

Radon is a radioactive gas found naturally in the environment. It is produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water. Radon is colourless, odourless and tasteless.

Radon is one factor that can impact the quality of indoor air. If radon enters an enclosed or poorly ventilated space, such as a basement, it can accumulate to levels that can pose a long-term risk for developing lung cancer. When exposed to both radon and tabacco smoke the risk of lung cancer significantly increases.

In 2007, Health Canada lowered the guideline for acceptable levels of radon in indoor air to 200 from 800 Becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m³). The following provides answers to some commonly asked questions about the revised guideline and how it relates to First Nations communities.

What is Health Canada doing to assist First Nations communities with meeting the new radon guideline?

Health Canada is assisting First Nations communities by:

• Identifying First Nations communities located in high radon potential areas through testing of public buildings;
• Providing advice and guidance through public education and awareness materials on the potential health risks associated with indoor radon gas; and
• Providing advice and recommendations to First Nations on mitigation, as needed.

Who is responsible for testing homes on reserve for radon and completing any required mitigation?

Home owners are responsible for testing their home and completing any required mitigation.

What is the Government of Canada doing to identify First Nations communities with high radon levels?

Health Canada will assist First Nations in identifying communities with higher potential for radon levels by testing public buildings. Public buildings in this context include senior homes, group homes, day care facilities, hospitals, schools and treatment centres. Once radon testing in public buildings is completed, Health Canada will be in a better position to provide advice and recommendations to First Nations Chiefs and Band Councils. 

Does Health Canada know how many homes on reserve may have radon levels that exceed the guideline?

Health Canada does not know how many homes on reserve may be affected at this time. According to the radon surveys done in Canadian cities, 2.67% of single-family homes are expected to have radon concentrations above the acceptable levels of radon in indoor air of 200 Becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m³). An estimate of the number of homes on reserve that may have radon levels higher than the guidelines will not be available until the sampling of public buildings on reserves is complete.

Where can I learn more?

Contact your Environmental Health Officer (EHO).

More information on radon can be found on the Web:

• Health Canada - Radon
• Health Canada - Radon Frequently Asked Questions
• Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)
• Canadian Lung Association

A copy of the booklet called Radon - A Guide for Canadian Homeowners produced by Health Canada and CMHC can be obtained by calling 1-800-668-2642. To find out more about radon, contact Health Canada's Radiation Protection Bureau at 613-954-6647 or at radon@hc-sc.gc.ca.