radon in the workplace - staying healthy where you work

The amount of radon that collects in a building depends on its location, structure and how it is used. Work environments vary greatly in size and nature, but excessive radon levels can occur in almost any type of workplace.

In workplaces such as offices, where hazards are normally low, radon can be the largest occupational health risk. Furthermore, employees who live nearby may also be exposed to a high level while at home. Wider awareness of radon can benefit employees.

At present there is no legal requirement for employers to test for radon gas. However, Federal employees are governed by the "Canada Labour Code (CLC)", which requires the Government of Canada to ensure that its workers are not being exposed to high levels of radon. Other workers are governed by the "Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material Guidelines (NORM)". The only way for an employer to know if they are compliant with the CLC and NORM Guidelines is to test.

If you are an employee and are concerned about radon in your workplace, you should speak to your employer.

Employers should assess hazards and consider taking action if radon levels exceed Health Canada's action guideline of 200 Bq/m3.

Prolonged exposure to high levels of radon is a health risk.

If you are a smoker and exposed to high levels of radon the risk of developing lung cancer is 1 in 3.

Don’t let the two leading causes of lung cancer stand in your way of living a long and healthy life.