How to Do Radon Testing in Nova Scotia at Home

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Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas, and high levels of radon in your house can pose a significant health risk. In Nova Scotia, radon levels can vary significantly, more than any other region, thus it won’t be prudent for a homeowner not to conduct any tests for this invisible threat. The guide here will feed you with a complete means of radon testing, the reasons for it, and what to do if there are high levels of radon in your house.

What is Radon and Why is it a Concern?

Radon is an odorless, tasteless, colorless gas produced by the natural decay of uranium found in rocks, soil, and water. When released into the air, radon can become highly concentrated in poorly ventilated spaces, such as homes. It continues to be a distant but very consequential risk factor for lung cancer, the second in line only after smoking itself, if one has a prolonged exposure to the gas.

Nova Scotia has been identified as a high-risk area for radon because of the geological composition of the province which allows higher levels of radon gas to be present in homes. A radon testing nova scotia will tell if one is at any risk.

How Does Radon Enter Your Home?

Radon gas enters homes from the ground from several entry points, including:

  • Foundation cracks
  • Gaps around pipes and utility lines
  • Floor drains and sump pits
  • Construction joints
  • Crawl spaces

The gas may accumulate once inside, especially at lower levels of your home where ventilation is inadequate. Radon testing in Nova Scotia is essential to determine the radon levels within your home. 

When Should You Test for Radon?

Ideally, testing should take place after your home has been sealed for winter. During colder months, closed windows and doors help stabilize radon levels indoors. The testing done in winter ensures that there is an accurate assessment of the highest radon levels the home could experience.

Types of Radon Testing Methods

There are generally two types of radon tests: short-term tests and long-term tests. Your best choice will depend on how soon you need the results and how accurate you want them.

Short-Term Testing

Short-term radon tests are intended simply to provide insight into the levels of radon present in your home within a short period. These tests generally last between 2 and 7 days. These tests provide a useful initial reading, but long-term testing is more accurate, as radon levels can fluctuate over time.

Long-Term Testing

Long-term radon tests are, by the name itself, tests that last for a period longer than 90 days; that means they will provide the best accurate average of radon exposure over time. This type of testing takes into account seasonal variations, hence making it much likely the best way to ascertain whether radon mitigation steps are needed. 

How to Perform a Radon Test in Your Home

The radon test is a simple, straightforward test that can be performed by most homeowners. Here is a procedure on how to conduct it.

  1. Purchase a Radon Test Kit – Either online, at your local health department, or at almost any hardware store, you can buy a radon test kit. In Nova Scotia, guidance on reliable radon test kits is given by organizations like Radon Atlantic and Health Canada.
  2. Choose the Right Location – The test kit should be placed in the lowest level of your home that is used frequently-for example, a basement or a main living area. Avoid placing the test in areas with high humidity, near vents, or windows.
  3. Follow the Instructions Carefully – Each radon test kit comes with specific instructions. You should try to stick to these specific instructions verbatim to get reliable results.
  4. Leave the Test Undisturbed – It’s best not to move the device while taking the measurement or interfere in any way with the overall environment where the kit is left.
  5. Send the Test for Laboratory Analysis – At the end of the test period, send the kit to the laboratory recommended in the kit. Most kits come along with prepaid envelopes for ease of mailing.
  6. Review the Results – When the radon test results come back, compare them to the safe limits recommended by Health Canada. If values exceed the acceptable limit of 200 becquerels per cubic meter (Bq/m³), you should take remedial measures.

What to Do If Your Radon Levels Are High

If the radon levels in your home are above 200 Bq/m³, It is crucial to take immediate action to reduce exposure.. Here are actions you can start considering: 

Improve Ventilation

Better air circulation can lead to a decrease in radon levels indoors. You can do this by opening windows, using exhaust fans, and ensuring good ventilation is available in basements and crawl spaces.

Seal Cracks and Entry Points

Seal cracks in the foundation and slabs, walls, and flooring to reduce radon entry. Pay attention to gaps around pipes and drains.

Install a Radon Mitigation System

A professional will install a radon mitigation system in the foundation. Such a system will efficiently redirect radon gas from below the home. Radon Atlantic provides professional radon mitigation services to ensure your home remains safe.

Regular Monitoring

Even after mitigation is complete, radon levels must still be monitored inside your home. Periodical testing will guarantee that mitigation efforts remain effective, and your home is not dangerous. Regular radon testing in Nova Scotia is essential to maintain long-term safety.

Government Support and Resources in Nova Scotia

In Nova Scotia, various governmental and health organizations will provide information links, workshops, and resources in support of radon testing and mitigation. Homeowners can access resources from:

  • Health Canada’s Radon Program
  • Nova Scotia Lung Association
  • The Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program (C-NRPP)
  • RadonAtlantic offers professional radon testing and mitigation services.

These organizations provide information on testing, mitigation measures, and certified radon professionals for further assistance in remediation efforts.

Conclusion

Radon exposure is a serious health concern; testing in Nova Scotia is an easy and effective way to ensure your safety. You should opt for reliable radon testing kits as well as follow the testing procedure rightly in case of any confirmation for mitigation to cut the risk of health threats featuring radon.

If you haven’t tested your home yet, there is no better time than now. Get started today and keep your now-and-forever radon-free home healthy for you and your loved ones in Nova Scotia. Get professional help from Radon Atlantic for testing and mitigation to help keep your home safe. 

Why Residential Ventilation Contractors Are the Key to Your Home’s Air Quality

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Introduction

Indoor air pollution can significantly impact your health, leading to respiratory issues, allergies, and other illnesses. Residential ventilation is one way to keep the quality of air in check. Residential Ventilation Contractors specialize in designing, installing, and maintaining ventilation systems to remove harmful pollutants and improve indoor air quality.

This blog seeks to discuss the role of residential ventilation, who Residential Ventilation Contractors are in enabling better air quality, and why hiring such experts as the team at RadonAtlantic is significant in promoting your home’s health.

The Importance of Residential Ventilation:

Proper ventilation is vital to any home. It controls airflow and removes contaminants that may lead to mold and mildew.Poor ventilation is a major contributor to indoor air pollution, allowing VOCs, allergens, and toxic gases like radon to accumulate and impact health.

Some of the other benefits of proper ventilation include:

  • Reduces Indoor Pollutants: Proper ventilation helps maintain a healthier indoor environment by reducing pollutants.
  • Controls Humidity Levels: Excess moisture in a building promotes mold growth and structural damage. 
  • Improves Energy Efficiency: Modern ventilation systems will reduce energy costs while dealing with air quality.
  • Enhances Comfort: Fresh, clean air contributes to a more comfortable and healthier living environment.

With those benefits in mind, hiring Residential Ventilation Contractors to design and install a sound ventilation system for your abode is a step in the right direction. 

How Residential Ventilation Contractors Improve Indoor Air Quality

1. Expert Assessment and Custom Solutions

Each home is different, and ventilation needs vary based upon each home’s size, design, and cooling or heating climate. Residential Ventilation Contractors conduct proper assessment for finding a perfect ventilation solution for the home. Experts assess airflow patterns, existing HVAC systems, radon levels, VOC pollutants, and insulation to determine the best ventilation solution for your home.

2. Installation of High-Quality Ventilation Systems

Expert contractors typically install the following ventilation systems:

  • Mechanical Ventilation Systems: they rely on fans and ducts to control the air.
  • Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) and Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs):HRVs and ERVs are devices that serve to filter out pollution while conserving energy.
  • Exhaust Fans: Bathroom exhaust fans help reduce excess moisture and improve air quality.
  • Radon Mitigation Systems: For homes facing substantial risk of excess radon levels, mitigation systems are very important in reducing health problems.

3. Ensuring Compliance with Industry Standards

Ventilation contractors are well-versed in building codes and air quality regulations. Working with certified professionals, like those at RadonAtlantic, guarantees that the house is up to code and safe, efficient, and free from contaminated air.

4. Regular Maintenance and Repairs

Ventilation systems, like any home system, require regular service to work optimally. Residential Ventilation Contractors shall provide maintenance services, such as 

  • Cleaning and replacing air filters
  • Checking ductwork for leaks or blockages
  • Inspecting and servicing exhaust fans
  • Monitoring radon levels and adjusting mitigation systems if needed

By getting a reliable contractor to do general maintenance services for you, you can keep the ventilation working properly all over the year. 

The Role of Radon Mitigation in Air Quality

Radon is among the factors that cause indoor air pollution that most fail to consider. Radon is a naturally occurring gas that seeps into homes from the ground. Prolonged exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, which necessitates its testing and mitigation for homeowners.

For the enterprise RadonAtlantic, radon testing and mitigation form the bedrock of their core services.Experienced Residential Ventilation Contractors assess radon levels in your home and implement effective mitigation systems to improve air quality. If your zone is known for high radon concentrations, then engaging professionals in that field is something you must consider for the sake of your family members.

Choosing the Right Residential Ventilation Contractors

When hiring Residential Ventilation Contractors, the following should be taken into account:

1. Experience and Expertise

Choose contractors with extensive experience in ventilation system installation and maintenance. Radon Atlantic has carved a niche for itself with trust and reliability of solutions that it offers.

2. Licensing and Certifications

Make sure the person you are hiring possesses licenses or certification especially in the local hazard mitigation and building norms.

3. Customer Reviews and Reputation

Check out the online reviews, testimonials and references to get an idea of the reputation of the company. High ratings and positive client testimonials are strong indicators of a contractor’s reliability and expertise.

4. Comprehensive Services

Look for contractors that provide a richer palette of services, in the realm of installation, inspection and maintenance.

5. Transparent Pricing

Professional contractors furnish you with a full quote and determine what the amount includes.

Conclusion

Maintaining good indoor air quality is essential for a healthy and comfortable living or working environment. Ventilation is meant to remove impurity, allergens, toxins, and various other health risks such as radon. Hiring expert Residential Ventilation Contractors will help in attaining aerated quality for your home and provide invaluable assistance in designing, installing, and maintaining the finest ventilation systems.

RadonAtlantic offers expert ventilation solutions, including radon mitigation, system installation, and ongoing maintenance, ensuring optimal air quality for your home. Professionals perform all work so that you can take a deep breath and feel confident that your indoor air is in great hands.

So, when you are ready to take that step to improve your indoor air quality for your home, contact RadonAtlantic, and let their team of expert Residential Ventilation Contractors create a healthier living and breathing environment for your family. 

Nova Scotia Radon Map in the Herald News

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Natural Resources maps out risk of radon throughout province.

Read the article in the Chronicle Herald about the New Nova Scotia Radon map.

Bondar says radon testing important, especially before winter

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By Patrick Odell Global News

Dr. Roberta Bondar, who made history as Canada’s first female astronaut, joined Global Halifax’s The Morning News Monday morning to share her concern about radon gas.

Bondar said it’s important to be aware of radon in the home environment, especially now that the tools exist to monitor it.

“We’re living in a wonderful age where technology can really improve our lives,” she said. “Sometimes when we look at technology, for the first time we’re able to identify things that before we didn’t know about. … It certainly is a very smart thing to try to stop having environmental hazards affect our health and our longevity on the planet.”

Visit Global News

 

Radon Dangers in Your Home

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Global Halifax

Mon, Nov 18th, 2013

Radon is an odorless, colorless radioactive gas that can seep into your basement. Word is spreading about this unseen hazard. Health Canada and the Lung Association have launched a new awareness campaign. Global’s Brett Ruskin reports.

 

New Radon Map of Nova Scotia

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Read more

Government of Canada Radon Guideline

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Health Canada collaborated with the Federal Provincial Territorial Radiation Protection Committee (FPTRPC) to review the health risk from exposure to radon. The risk assessment is based on new scientific information and was the subject of broad public consultation. Using the risk assessment and feedback obtained from the public consultation, the Government of Canada is updating its guideline for exposure to radon in indoor air. This updated guideline provides advice that is more broadly applicable and more protective than the previous FPTRPC guideline.

The Minister recommends that

  • Remedial measures should be undertaken in a dwelling whenever the average annual radon concentration exceeds 200 Bq/m³ in the normal occupancy area.
  • The higher the radon concentration, the sooner remedial measures should be undertaken.
  • When remedial action is taken, the radon level should be reduced to a value as low as practicable.
  • The construction of new dwellings should employ techniques that will minimize radon entry and will facilitate post-construction radon removal, should this subsequently prove necessary.

Points of clarification

  1. In addition to residential homes, the term “dwelling” in this guideline also applies to public buildings with a high occupancy rate by members of the public such as schools, hospitals, long-term care residences, and correctional facilities. The following settings are excluded from this guideline:
    1. Uranium mines, which are regulated by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission;
    2. Other mines (e.g., fluorspar mines), which are regulated by provincial mining authorities; and
    3. Other workplaces which would be addressed by existing guidelines for naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM). Details are given in the Canadian Guidelines for Management of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM) and a copy may be viewed or downloaded.
  2. The “normal occupancy area” refers to any part of the dwelling where a person is likely to spend several hours (greater than four) per day. This would include a finished basement with a family room, guest room, office or work shop. It would also include a basement apartment. It would exclude an unfinished basement, a crawl space, or any area that is normally closed off and accessed infrequently, e.g., a storage area, cold room, furnace room, or laundry room.
  3. The aim is to remediate and reduce the radon concentration to less than 200 Bq/m³. If the radon concentration is found to be greater than 600 Bq/m³, the remedial actions are recommended to be completed in less than a year; between 200 Bq/m³ and 600 Bq/m³, the remedial actions should be completed in less than two years.
  4. “As low as practicable” refers to what can be achieved with conventional radon reduction methods in a cost-effective manner. This is consistent with the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle, whereby reasonable efforts are made to maintain radiation exposures as low as possible, with social and economic factors taken into consideration. In most situations, a final level less than 200 Bq/m³ will be readily achievable. In a small number of cases, it may happen that the application of all reasonable remediation techniques will still leave a residual radon level greater than 200 Bq/m³. It is not the intention of this guideline to recommend excessive or unreasonable remediation costs in order to achieve a marginal increase in benefit. Such situations should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
  5. This Government of Canada guideline is based on the guidance approved by the FPTRPC. The guideline is based upon current scientific understanding. It will be reviewed and updated as appropriate. Further information on the Federal Provincial Territorial Radiation Protection Committee is available.

Measure Radon Levels

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The only way to know the level in your home is to measure it using a radon detector. There are a number of measuring devices and services available. Testing is safe, simple and relatively inexpensive. Some radon detectors allow you to measure radon concentrations over short periods (days) while others do so over several months.

Health Canada recommends measuring radon in your home for at least three   months, ideally in the fall and winter timeframe. Radon levels can vary significantly over time and, therefore, a long-term test is more accurate.

If the radon test results are above the Canadian Guideline of 200 becquerels per cubic meter (200Bq/m3), steps to reduce the level of radon in your home should be taken. The higher the level, the sooner corrective measures should be taken. Remember that you should not rely on your neighbors’ test result as results can vary significantly from one home to the next.

Test kits can usually be found at hardware stores. The Nova Scotia Lung Association is also offering long-term radon test kits at a price of $35 ($40 if you’d like them shipped)  Please phone (888) 566-5864 or click here to purchase online.