Radon Analysis in Ambient Air

ACE Laboratoires Inc. technicians are certified by the C-NRPP for the measurement of radon exposure. The laboratories provide passive sampling equipment to their clients allowing short and long-term measurements ofradon exposure. 

What is Radon?

Radon is a natural radioactive gas that results from the disintegration of uranium and radium in the soil. This gas can be dangerous when present in large quantities, for example when a building is built on a bed of rock. Radon penetrates buildings through cracks in foundations, construction joints, soil traps and sumps. Accumulation inside buildings, in poorly ventilated areas, poses a health hazard.

Health Hazard

According to the Government of Canada Radon Guidelines, the permissible radon concentration in buildings is 200 becquerels per m3. When radon degrades, solid filiation products are inhaled and emit alpha particles that affect lung tissue and increase the risk of lung cancer.

Regulation

According to Health Canada, the higher the radon levels, the quicker you have to act.

  • More than 600 Bq / m3 - Remedy in less than one year
  • Between 200 and 600 Bq / m3 - Remedy in less than two years
  • Less than 200 Bq / m3 - No action required

When to Request this Analysis

When a real estate transaction is underway, or simply to quickly know radon concentrations in the building, short term exposition measurements (3 to 7 days) are advocated. Although, if the goal is to measure the real exposition, a long term exposition measurement (90 days to a year) is suggested.

Sampling

Radon measuring systems with ionization and electret chambers are available for purchase. These systems are the most accurate according to the US Environmental Protection Agency and are much less influenced by their storage, transport, moisture variations, etc. than other similar systems. The deployment can be done by a specialist or by you, following the instructions accompanying the equipment and duly completing the application for analysis form.

Since atmospheric pressure influences the concentration of radon in a building, the highest concentration is found in basements and cellars as these locations are closer to the source of contamination and since the basements are often the least ventilated places.