Radon Information Hub

Your Trusted Source for Radon Testing Guidance

Welcome to the AGAT Laboratories Radon Information Hub. Here, you’ll find everything you need to test for radon in your home, office, or school. Whether you’re testing air or water, short-term or long-term, AGAT Laboratories is here to support you with accurate testing solutions and expert resources.

Short-Term Radon Tests

  • Duration: 2 to 10 days.
  • Purpose: A quick assessment of radon levels.
  • Limitations: Results reflect only short-term exposure and are not suitable for determining the need for remedial action.
  • Recommendation: Use for initial screenings, but follow up with long-term testing for accurate results.

Important Note: By purchasing AGAT Radon Kits (long or short term), you agree to the following: Radon Kit shall remain the property of AGAT Laboratories while in the custody of the client and upon return of the E-Perm to AGAT for analysis. The client is responsible for the sum of $100.00 for any E-Perm which is not returned in good condition to AGAT or for each device not received back 30 days after deployment (121 days after shipment from AGAT for long-term devices, and 44 days after shipment from AGAT for short-term devices).

Deployment Video

Long-Term Radon Tests

  • Duration: Minimum of 91+ days, preferably during the heating season.
  • Purpose: Provides an accurate year-round average of radon levels.
  • Guideline: Health Canada recommends long-term testing to determine if levels exceed 200 Bq/m³.
  • Actionable Results: These results are essential for determining remediation needs.

Important Note: By purchasing AGAT Radon Kits (long or short term), you agree to the following: Radon Kit shall remain the property of AGAT Laboratories while in the custody of the client and upon return of the E-Perm to AGAT for analysis. The client is responsible for the sum of $100.00 for any E-Perm which is not returned in good condition to AGAT or for each device not received back 30 days after deployment (121 days after shipment from AGAT for long-term devices, and 44 days after shipment from AGAT for short-term devices).

Deployment Video

Radon in Water Tests

Sample Submission Schedule: Samples must be submitted to AGAT between Monday and Wednesday only. Samples will not be accepted on Thursday or Friday.

Important Note: By purchasing AGAT Radon in Water Test Kits, you agree to the following: Sampling bottles remain the property of AGAT Laboratories while in your custody and must be returned to AGAT for analysis. A $100 fee applies for any sampling bottle not returned in good condition or if bottles are not received back within 10 days after shipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. It is produced from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water and can accumulate in buildings, particularly in lower levels.

Why is radon testing important?

In Canada, Radon is the #1 cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. There are no areas of Canada that are radon free and levels can differ from home to home. Long-term exposure to high levels of radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Testing is the only way to determine if your home or workplace has elevated radon levels.

How does radon enter buildings?

Radon can seep into buildings through foundation cracks, floor drains or ground level windows, as well as through gaps around pipes and construction joints.

What is the safe level of radon?

Health Canada recommends taking action if radon levels exceed 200 Bq/m³ (becquerels per cubic meter) in indoor air.

What types of radon tests are available?

Short-term tests (minimum 48 hours to 10 days) provide a snapshot of radon levels. Long-term tests (91+ days during heating season) give a more accurate assessment of yearly radon exposure. Radon in water test.

Which test should I use—short-term or long-term?

Short-term tests are useful for quick assessments, but long-term tests during heating season provide more reliable data since radon levels fluctuate over time. Health Canada recommends long-term testing before making mitigation decisions.

Where should I place the radon detector?

Place the detector in the lowest occupied level of the building where people spend at least 4 hours per day—typically basements or ground floors. Avoid placing detectors in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, or near exterior walls, windows, vents, or sumps.

What are “closed building conditions,” and when do they apply?

For short-term tests (less than 4 days), windows and doors should remain closed, except for normal entry and exit. Fans and ventilation systems that bring in outside air should not be used.

Where do I send my completed test for analysis?

Return your radon detector in person or by mail to:

AGAT Laboratories
2420 – 42 Avenue NE
Calgary, Alberta T2E 7T6
Phone: (403) 736-5300
Email: [email protected]

What should I do if my radon levels are high?

If radon levels exceed 200 Bq/m³, Health Canada recommends taking mitigation measures such as improving ventilation, sealing cracks, or installing a radon mitigation system.

How long does it take to receive my radon test results?

After returning the device, results are typically available within a few weeks. Contact AGAT Laboratories for more details on turnaround times.

Can radon levels vary throughout the year?

Yes, radon levels fluctuate due to seasonal changes, temperature, and ventilation. Winter months often have higher radon levels due to closed windows and increased indoor heating.

Should I retest my home after mitigation?

Yes, after mitigation, retesting is recommended to ensure radon levels remain below 200 Bq/m³.

Where can I find more information on radon testing and mitigation?

For more information on radon, testing procedures, and mitigation, you can visit Health Canada’s radon page or the Take Action on Radon website. To find certified radon measurement and mitigation professionals, consult the Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program (C-NRPP) directory.

Radon Video
Illustration of a residential neighborhood with an underground cross-section, highlighting the presence of radon gas with large yellow warning symbols.

Contact Us

Email [email protected] for questions or to request testing services.