What Is Radon?
Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that forms from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. Because it’s invisible to the senses, many people are unaware of its presence until they perform a specific test. Radon is often called the "silent killer" because long-term exposure can lead to severe health issues, including lung cancer.
How Radon Is Formed
Radon is produced during the radioactive decay of uranium, a mineral commonly found in soil and rocks. As uranium breaks down, it releases radon gas, which can seep into the air and water. Outdoors, radon disperses harmlessly into the atmosphere. However, in enclosed spaces like homes and buildings, it can accumulate to dangerous levels.
How Radon Enters Homes and Buildings
Radon gas moves from the ground into buildings through cracks and openings in the foundation. Common entry points include:
- Cracks in concrete floors and walls
- Gaps around service pipes
- Construction joints
- Crawl spaces
Factors such as poor ventilation and the natural air pressure differences between the home’s interior and the soil can increase radon infiltration.
Health Risks of Radon Exposure
Prolonged exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking, according to the World Health Organization. Radon particles, when inhaled, release radioactive energy that damages lung tissue over time. The risk is higher for smokers, but non-smokers are also vulnerable, making radon testing and mitigation critical for everyone.
Testing for Radon
Testing is the only way to know if radon is present in your home. There are two main types of radon tests:
- Short-term tests: These devices measure radon levels over a few days and provide a quick assessment.
- Long-term tests: These tests monitor radon levels for 90 days or more, offering a more accurate understanding of your home’s exposure.
Testing kits are widely available and easy to use, but for precise results, consider hiring a certified radon measurement professional.
Mitigating Radon Levels
If your home has high radon levels, mitigation systems can reduce the gas to safe levels. Common radon mitigation techniques include:
- Sub-slab depressurization: A system that uses a vent pipe and fan to draw radon out from beneath the foundation.
- Sealing entry points: Reducing radon entry by sealing cracks and gaps in the foundation.
Professional radon mitigators can assess your home and recommend the most effective solution.
Radon Guidelines
Governments and health organizations provide guidelines to ensure safe indoor radon levels. For example, Health Canada recommends action if radon levels exceed 200 Bq/m³, while the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests taking action at levels above 4 pCi/L. Knowing the guidelines in your region can help you stay informed and take appropriate action.