Commercial Radon Testing for the Workplace: Ensuring Safety in Edmonton’s Office Space

Dorothy Bewernick
Dec 10
3 min read

Why is it essential to conduct commercial Radon testing

Creating a safe work environment in Edmonton is crucial for all businesses, and commercial radon testing is an essential first step. A colourless and odourless radioactive gas, Radon can seep into offices unnoticed. Hence, ensuring compliance with safety standards – such as undergoing regular Radon testing for businesses - is essential in identifying hidden health hazards.

Radon and Its Effect on Companies

Radon naturally forms from the decay of uranium in soil and can enter buildings through openings such as cracks in foundations, sump pits, floor drains, or gaps around pipes and wiring. Large commercial spaces, warehouses, and many offices in Edmonton are vulnerable due to their soil contact or structural design. Although commercial radon testing is often overlooked, these entry points can go undetected, allowing radon to accumulate indoors and reduce air quality. This identification and remediation of these areas will enable businesses to prevent extended exposure and keep their employees safe.

Risks of Lung Cancer from Radon in the Office

The dangers of Radon in workplaces are generally not recognised. Workers who spend much of their day indoors are at greater risk of developing lung cancer when repeatedly exposed to high radon levels over time. Regular Radon testing for businesses is not only beneficial for employees’ health, but it can also help limit the potential liability of companies that are required to provide a safe work environment for their employees.

Why Workplaces in Edmonton Are More at Risk

Several Edmonton workplaces have an elevated risk of Radon exposure due to the city’s unique geology and cold weather conditions. The region’s soil naturally contains uranium, and during Edmonton’s long winters, buildings are sealed tightly to conserve heat, trapping radon inside instead of allowing it to ventilate outdoors. The bottom floors of commercial buildings are generally more susceptible to damage. This is what makes Commercial Radon Testing so crucial for the safety of Edmonton businesses around the clock.

How Commercial Radon Testing Works

Commercial radon testing involves placing professional-grade detectors at specific locations throughout the building. For the majority of commercial properties, experts recommend annual or semi-annual testing to confirm that Radon levels remain at an acceptable level and to detect any changes that may be caused by renovation work or seasonal fluctuations.

Reading the Test and the Next Steps

Health Canada recommends mitigation when indoor levels are above 200 Bq/m³. If the Commercial Radon Testing identifies high levels, then the next task is to seek help from Radon mitigation experts. These professionals can evaluate the building’s construction, identify trouble spots, and develop a plan to safely and effectively lower Radon levels.

Radon Mitigation Options for Businesses

Mitigation is necessary when elevated levels of Radon are found. Commercial mitigation methods work by reducing Radon levels in a building or structure by controlling airflow and rerouting gas away from occupied areas. Scheduled inspections help ensure the long-term efficacy of companies, allowing them to remain compliant with national and local health regulations for workplace safety in Edmonton.

Workplace Safety and Employer Responsibility

Like the rest of Canada, employers in Alberta have an obligation to create a safe environment through provincial Occupational Health and Safety laws. Dealing with Radon exposure is one of those obligations. Employers can initiate commercial radon testing for their premises to ensure compliance and maintain a safe workplace. The results are then discussed with employees, and awareness programs are implemented. Striving for better air quality and a healthier workforce demonstrates a duty of care and a strong corporate reputation.

Conclusion: Investing in Occupational Health and Safety in Edmonton

Commercial Radon Testing for Edmonton Businesses: Investing in a Commercial Radon Test is a great way for Edmonton businesses to protect their teams, demonstrate corporate responsibility, and maintain productivity. Maintaining a healthy indoor environment supports employee well-being and reinforces a company’s commitment to workplace health and safety.