Radon is an odourless and colourless gas that is the product of the natural breakdown of uranium in the ground. Sign one of these these monitors out with your library card to measure the Radon levels in your home or workplace!
Digital Radon Monitors circulate for 21 days at a time. One monitor loan per card at a time, and up to three renewals. Available for loan from October 1 to March 15 – the heating season- in accordance with Health Canada’s recommendations.
What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring colourless, odourless and tasteless radioactive gas that forms when uranium breaks down in soil, rock and water. It can be found at high levels in buildings all over Ontario, including Carleton Place and Beckwith. When radon is released from the ground outside it gets diluted by fresh air and is not a concern. When radon enters indoor areas through floors, holes, and cracked foundations it can accumulate to higher levels and be a risk to our health.
When and how long should I test for?
For the most accurate result, monitoring should be done over several months. The best time of year to test is when our windows close between Fall and Spring, so less fresh air is circulating. CPPL’s monitors may be loaned for 3 weeks, which is enough time for there to be an indication that a home or building has a concerning level of Radon.
What does my test result mean?
The higher the radon level, the higher your risk of developing lung cancer with long-term exposure. Health Canada recommends remedial action for radon levels that are above 200 Bq/m3, targeting the lowest radon level achievable in your home. A public health inspector at the Leeds, Grenville & Lanark District Health Unit can help you interpret your test results and decide whether consultation with a certified radon mitigation professional is necessary. Public Health Inspectors can be contacted at 1-800-660-5853 or contact@healthunit.org.
Where can I find more information?
Further information can be found on the Leeds, Grenville & Lanark District Health Unit, Health Canada and Take Action on Radon sites.
Disclaimer: these digital monitors are a screening tool only. All patrons need to conduct a long-term radon test or hire a radon measurement professional to get an accurate measurement of the radon level in their home.