Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas found in soil, is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. Invisible, odorless, and dangerous when it accumulates in buildings, it represents a major public health concern in Canada. To address this, two key standards have been established:
- CAN/CGSB-149.11-2024: Standard for new buildings.
- CAN/CGSB-149.12-2024: Standard for existing buildings.
These two standards offer a comprehensive approach to reducing radon-related risks, covering both construction and renovation. Here's a detailed guide to better understand and apply these standards.
Why is radon a problem?
Radon is produced by the decay of uranium present in the soil. When it accumulates in enclosed spaces like homes, basements, or offices, it can reach dangerous levels. Health Canada recommends a maximum concentration of 200 Bq/m³ in homes. Above this threshold, measures must be taken to protect the health of occupants.
CAN/CGSB-149.11-2024 Standard: For new buildings
Objective
This standard provides guidelines for integrating radon mitigation systems from the design and construction phase of new buildings, whether residential, commercial, or industrial.
Key changes since the previous edition (2019)
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Expanded scope: The standard now applies to all types of new buildings, not just homes and small buildings.
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Mitigation levels:
- Level 1a: Standard mitigation system with vertical discharge.
- Level 1b: Variant with side discharge.
- Level 2: Passive system with radon stack.
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Removal of Level 3: Active sub-slab depressurization systems (now reserved for existing buildings) have been moved to the CAN/CGSB-149.12-2024 standard.
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Practical improvements:
- New illustrations to guide installation.
- Updated references for alignment with the National Building Code.
CAN/CGSB-149.12-2024 Standard: For existing buildings
Objective
This standard is designed for existing buildings, which are often more exposed to radon risks due to their original design. It offers tailored solutions for measuring, evaluating, and mitigating radon concentrations.
Key elements
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Initial assessment:
- Long-term testing (90 days or more) to measure radon levels.
- Inspection to identify radon entry points (cracks, drains, cable passages, etc.).
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Mitigation methods:
- Active soil depressurization (Level 3): Installation of a fan to prevent radon from entering the building.
- Crack sealing: Reducing gas entry points.
- Improved ventilation: Increased air exchange.
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Maintenance and monitoring:
- Regular checks to ensure the effectiveness of installed systems.
- Occupant training to recognize signs of failure.
Comparison of the two standards
| Characteristic | CAN/CGSB-149.11-2024 | CAN/CGSB-149.12-2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Building type | New buildings | Existing buildings |
| Mitigation systems | Passive and semi-passive (Levels 1 and 2) | Mainly active (Level 3) |
| Time of application | During construction | Post-construction |
| Main objective | Prevention | Radon level reduction |
Why are these standards essential?
For owners
- Ensure occupant safety and health.
- Protect property value by meeting modern standards.
For builders and renovators
- Facilitate compliance with growing consumer expectations and local regulations.
- Strengthen their position as experts in healthy and sustainable construction.
For public health
- Reduce radon exposure, responsible for over 3,200 lung cancer deaths annually in Canada.
How to implement these standards?
- Test for radon: Whether for a new or existing building, testing is the first step.
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Plan mitigation measures:
- Integrate passive or active systems during construction.
- Adapt solutions for existing buildings based on test results.
- Call on experts: Entrust system installation to qualified professionals to ensure their effectiveness.
- Follow standard recommendations: Use best practices described in the standards for optimal compliance.
Conclusion: Protecting our living and working spaces
The CAN/CGSB-149.11-2024 and CAN/CGSB-149.12-2024 standards offer a comprehensive solution for reducing radon risks in buildings, whether new or existing. By adopting these practices, we can build a healthier and safer future for everyone.
Need help implementing these standards? Contact us for personalized advice and solutions tailored to your needs. Together, let's reduce radon risks!