Government Establishes Advisory Group on Radon

ENVIRONMENT/LABOUR--Government Establishes Advisory Group on Radon

An interdepartmental advisory group has been established to conduct research on the extent of naturally occurring radon in indoor air in Nova Scotia, beginning with several Nova Scotia schools.

Preliminary tests have already shown that levels at 14 schools were below the Canadian guidelines for radon in air. The guidelines are set nationally by Health Canada at 800 becquerels per metre cubed (Bq/m3). Results from the schools tested ranged from about 22 to 650 Bq/m3. The tests were conducted as an extension of the work being done to address radionuclides in school water.

There is no immediate health risk from radon, an odourless, colourless gas that is released from the natural radioactive breakdown of uranium in the ground. However, there is some increased risk of developing lung cancer over a lifetime of exposure.

"Radon is naturally occurring. It's easy to test for. And it's easy and cost effective to reduce the levels of radon in indoor air," said the province's senior radiation officer, Pat Wall. "Schools are a good place to test because they are in communities all across the province."

Mr. Wall is chair of the provincial advisory group on radon. The committee is working to determine the extent of radon gas in indoor air and will develop a program to ensure Nova Scotians will not be exposed to levels beyond Canadian guidelines.

"Preliminary tests have already been conducted at some schools. And while they all report levels below the guidelines, because of the long-term risks we believe it's appropriate to take steps now to address the issue," he said. "The advisory group will begin by providing advice to the Department of Education on how they should proceed with testing and remediation, if necessary."

Experts making up the advisory group include the province's senior radiation officer, a medical officer of health, a mineral deposit geologist and a senior environmental impact specialist from Health Canada.

"Radon in the air poses no immediate health risk, however we know that, over a lifetime, exposure to radon increases your risk of lung cancer. This risk is increased if you smoke," said Dr. Strang, medical officer of health and a member of the provincial advisory group on radon. "As a result, it's important that radon levels in homes and other buildings are made as low as practicably possible."

The 14 schools that received preliminary tests were chosen because they are in areas of the province where the geology is likely to produce higher levels of radon. The schools are primarily in Halifax, with two in Lunenburg County.

Homeowners can get more information on radon on the website at www.gov.ns.ca/enla/radon.asp or by calling 1-877-9ENVIRO. Information is also available on Health Canada's website at www.hc-sc.gc.ca/english/iyh/environment/radon.html .