Radon Tests

Radon is a radioactive colourless and odourless gas that is released naturally from the soil. It can be found throughout the country, with the prairies having some of the highest levels. Radon gas gives off radiation, which can lead to cancer; continued exposure increases the probability of developing lung cancer due to the inhalation of the gas.

Radon occurs naturally when uranium and rock decays in soil. It is diluted in the outdoors and is not a significant risk, it is only in enclosed spaces radon can sometimes accumulate to levels that pose a health risk.

Doing a test for radon is simple! Single use test kits or continuous digital monitors can be purchased online, at some home improvement stores or a professional can be contacted for testing. Because levels of radon can be different by day and the by the week, it is critical that radon is measured in your home for three months to find out what the average level of radon gas is over time.

Order a Radon test kit - Take Action on Radon

It is recommended that the test be conducted in the lowest level of your house that you spend the most time in during the day (4 hours or more).

Radon gas can be reduced by caulking and sealing cracks in holes in basement floors and walls, as well as ensuring areas around drains and pipes are sealed. Other options include mechanical ventilation

The City of Brandon does not offer radon gas tests. New home builds are required to have radon pipes installed for future extraction systems according to the national building code. Tests can be found at some home improvement stores as well as the Manitoba Lung association website https://mb.lung.ca/radon/radon---home-testing-kits.html

Find a Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program certified specialist at Find a Professional – C-NRPP

Visit Manitoba Health for more information https://www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/environmentalhealth/radon.html