Learn about radon testing in Yukon schools

In spring 2018, we tested radon levels in Yukon schools. Testing involved installing equipment:

• for at least 3 months;
• in every single room on the lowest level of a school being used for more than 4 hours a day.

What is radon

Radon is a colourless, odourless, naturally occurring gas in Yukon. Coming from the soil, it can enter buildings through cracks and unsealed openings in

• basements; and
• foundations.

Radon does not pose an immediate danger to health. It’s only a concern if there’s prolonged exposure to high concentrations over many years.

Measurements for radon are measured in becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m3). According to Health Canada’s Guide for Radon Measurements in Public Buildings, recommended levels of radon concentration for acceptable indoor air quality are as follows:

• Below 200 Bq/m³ – acceptable
• Between 200 Bq/m³ and 600 Bq/m³ – remediate within 2 years
• Above 600 Bq/m³ – remediate within 1 year

Recent test results

These schools were slightly above Health Canada’s recommended levels for radon:

• Christ the King Elementary;
• Eliza Van Bibber; and
• Holy Family Elementary.

Next steps

We are working with staff and planning remediation work at:

• Christ the King Elementary; and
• Eliza Van Bibber.

We’ll complete remediation work at both schools within the 2-year timeframe recommended by Health Canada. We’ll then re-test both schools to ensure radon levels are below the recommended levels.

Remediation was completed at Holy Family Elementary in January 2018. We’ll re-test radon levels during the 2019–20 heating season.

We’ll continue to ensure radon levels at Yukon schools remain within levels recommended by Health Canada. We’ll re-test schools if:

• there’s work done on a school exterior, foundation or basement;
• seismic activity affects the school building;
• the ground or basement floors are renovated; or
• radon remediation work has been done in a school.