Abstract

Radon is a colourless, odourless radioactive gas that is likely to be found in all buildings, including workplaces. Under certain conditions, this gas can accumulate in buildings in concentrations that represent a concern for health. Inhalation is the main route of exposure to radon, which, over the long term, increases the risk of developing lung cancer. In fact, radon is one of the 10 agents responsible for the largest number of occupational lung cancers in Canada.

It is important to document Quebec workers’ exposure to this gas, since there is currently little information on this topic.

This research project aims to measure radon concentrations in different workplaces and to assess the effective radiation dose to which workers are exposed. The effective radiation dose refers to the impact of radiation on biological tissue, such as lungs.

The research team also plans to determine, on an exploratory basis, whether certain factors are particularly likely to affect radon concentrations, with the goal of proposing management approaches to mitigate exposure to this contaminant, if applicable.