The Invisible Danger in Alberta Schools

Radon gas is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless radioactive gas that seeps up from the ground and can accumulate to dangerous levels inside any building—including schools.

The Risk to Students and Staff:

• Significant Cancer Risk (Health Canada & Canadian Cancer Society Data): Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer overall, after smoking, and the number one cause of lung cancer in non-smokers in Canada. Health Canada estimates that over 3,000 deaths in Canada each year are related to radon exposure, accounting for about 16% of all lung cancer fatalities.

  • Learn More: Health Canada: Radon Gas Causes Lung Cancer

  • Learn More: Canadian Cancer Society: Radon Information

• Alberta is a High-Risk Zone: Research has consistently shown that many regions in Alberta, particularly the southern and central parts, have a high prevalence of elevated radon levels in buildings. While all homes and buildings are at risk, initial data suggests that many older schools in the province have not been tested.

• The Exposure Factor: Children are more sensitive to the effects of radiation and spend a significant portion of their day—and their lives—within school facilities. Testing is the critical first step to protecting their long-term health.

Health Canada Guideline: Testing is the essential first step to determine if the average annual radon concentration in a building is 200 Becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m3) or higher.

Our Accredited Testing Process

As a dedicated Alberta-based firm, WCES provides comprehensive, turn-key radon testing programs specifically designed for large institutional facilities like schools, ensuring compliance with all national guidelines and professional standards.

Why Professional Testing is Essential:

• C-NRPP Certification: Our measurement professionals are certified through the Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program (C-NRPP). This is the only certification recognized by Health Canada and ensures that our staff are trained in proper measurement techniques, quality assurance, and reporting for public buildings. [Source: C-NRPP]

• Adherence to Health Canada Protocols: We strictly follow the federal guidance, which requires:

  • Long-Term Testing (91+ days): Radon levels fluctuate daily and seasonally. The only reliable way to determine annual average exposure is through a long-term test device placed for a minimum of 91 days.

  • Strategic Placement: Devices are placed in every frequently occupied room (4+ hours/day) on the lowest level of the school that is regularly used.

  • Ideal Timing: Testing is conducted during the heating season (fall/winter) when radon concentrations are typically at their highest, ensuring the most conservative and protective result. [Source: Health Canada]

• CARST Standards: We are proud members of the Canadian Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (CARST), upholding the highest standards in scientific methodology and ethical practice. [Source: CARST]

Our Commitment to Alberta Schools:

WCES works directly with facility managers and school boards to create a customized Radon Testing Plan that covers:

1. Survey & Planning: Identifying the appropriate number and location of test devices.

2. Deployment & Monitoring: Installing 91-day test devices and securely managing the process.

3. Accredited Analysis: WCES is a C-NRPP accredited laboratory.

4. Reporting & Recommendations: Providing clear, confidential results with certified recommendations for next steps if levels exceed 200 Bq/m3.

Take Action for a Safer Learning Environment

While the Alberta government requires radon rough-ins for new school construction, the responsibility to test existing buildings falls on the school administration.

Don't wait. Testing is the first step to knowing your risk and protecting your students and staff today.

Contact WCES for a consultation on your school division's radon testing requirements.

Phone: 587 991 5210587-991-5210

Email: jasonwiks@gmail.com