Message from The OAHI Board of Directors
Published on November 2, 2020
As November is Radon Awareness Month, now is a good time to discuss the importance of offering auxiliary services such as radon testing.
The Government of Canada says, “Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It is invisible, odourless and tasteless. When radon is released from the ground into the outdoor air, it is diluted and is not a concern. However, in enclosed spaces, like homes, it can accumulate to high levels and become a risk to the health of you and your family.”
According to Take Action on Radon, “Over time, exposure to elevated levels of radon can cause lung cancer. In fact, radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, causing over 3,200 Canadian deaths each year.”
Many OAHI members are Radon Measurement Professionals, members of CARST and are C-NRPP certified, which attests to their qualifications. If you are not C-NRPP certified, you should consider this so you can offer more to your clients. If you test for radon, add that to your OAHI profile, email signature, brochures, and your other online descriptions. You can also link or incorporate this info sheet about radon. Download the “Radon Gas: It’s In your Home” brochure.
Furthermore, the Canadian Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (CARST/ACSTR) reports, “A recent Health Canada survey revealed that 7 % of Canadians are living in homes with high radon levels. While all homes have some level of radon, the consideration that needs to be made when considering a purchase is how likely it is that the radon level is high, and how much it will cost to fix.”
Other auxiliary services to consider adding: Wood Energy Technology Transfer Inc (WETT), septic systems, and thermography. Watch OAHI emails for information about courses, deals on equipment etc.
Regards,
Your OAHI Board of Directors
