Detectorperson

Each smoke detector made in Canada must comply with strict radiation safety standards before their distribution. The CNSC is responsible for licensing the manufacturing and initial distribution of all smoke detectors containing a radioactive source in Canada. Check out our Household Smoke Detector Safety and Disposal Fact Sheet for more information.

Smoke detectors are the most common consumer products that use nuclear technology to function. They are critical components of every household and workplace because of their ability to detect smoke in the air and identify potential fire hazards.

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The americium-241 in ionization chamber smoke detectors makes the air in the detector’s sensing chamber conduct electricity. When smoke enters the sensing chamber, it interrupts the electrical current, triggering the smoke detector’s alarm.

Ionizing smoke detectors are used in Canada because they are best at detecting quick burning fires, such as many of the fires which occur in North American buildings, which contain significant amounts of wood.

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There is no limit as to how many residential smoke detectors you may dispose of at one time. Most households do not have more than one or two at their disposal anyway. However, hiring a consultant is recommended for the disposal of large institutional quantities or industrial smoke detectors.

There are two primary technologies used in smoke detectors. One type uses a photoelectric sensor to detect the change in light level caused by smoke. The other uses the radiation from a small amount of radioactive material to sense smoke. These types of detectors, also referred to as ionization chamber smoke detectors, are the most commonly used because of their sensitivity and ability to identify a wider range of fire conditions.

Harken V blocks are standard with 3D-molded carbon sideplates, titanium sheave, and captive titanium roller bearings. Sideplates are also available in anodized aluminum. V blocks are easy to disassemble for inspection and maintenance.

Most household detectors contain a very small amount of americium-241, a radioactive isotope. The slight amount of radiation that can be measured outside the unit does not pose any health risk. In fact, the average annual radiation dose from these devices per person represents 0.01 percent of the dose they receive from natural background radiation. The safe encapsulation and low amount of radioactive material make these devices completely safe under all conditions, even during or after a fire.