... continued from page 15 [Leading Advocate].
Test results from the alpha track puck tests
is relayed from the laboratory to school management and Interior Health. The data is shared with the British Columbia Centre for Disease Control for entry into the central provincial database that contributes to a provincial mapping process underway. Although maps should not be used on a
micro level (2 houses side-by-side can test
far different), mapping can help educate
local government officials about radon hot spots and assist decision-making around building code rough-in amendments.
The impact will be that all schools in our region will have radon levels below the Canadian guideline.Students and staff
working in school buildings will be better protected from radon exposure. As long-
term inhalation of alpha particle radiation increases the lifetime relative risk of lung cancer, the goal is to bring radon into the overall portfolio of school indoor air quality maintenance under the As Low as Reasonably Achievable principle (below the Canadian Guideline).
A secondary but very important impact is
that our initiative is increasing awareness about radon. Staff and students from schools will now know about radon and may decide to test their homes, or other workplaces. We are planning a Student Radon Skill Testing Contest associated with the school initiative to further incentivize knowledge spread.
The last word:
It is important that individuals be aware of the risks of radon and be motivated to test their homes, workplaces and indoor leisure spaces. Public health efforts should make it easier for individuals to access information and obtain test kits so people can have the tools they need to be healthy.
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