For additional information on any of the following topics, click
on the links below.
What is radon?
Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from the natural breakdown
of uranium in soil, water, and rock. The invisible, odorless, and
tasteless gas seeps through cracks in the earth and the foundation
of buildings. A building traps the radon and levels rise over time
and we breathe in it. Radon is found all over the US and can build
up to dangerous levels in homes, public buildings and schools. However,
the greatest exposure is at home since people spend a majority of
their time at home.
Why is radon harmful?
Radon is a known carcinogen in humans. In fact, radon exposure
is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.
Since smoking remains the first cause of lung cancer, smokers with
radon exposure are at the highest risk for developing lung cancer.
What is being done to protect my family from radon?
Currently, there are not many government regulations on radon levels
in homes. The United States Congress has set a long-term goal that
indoor radon levels be no higher than outdoor levels. However, technological
advances have yet to be made to meet this goal. The Environmental
Protection Agency suggests that radon levels over 4 pCi/L pose a
greater risk to humans and should be mitigated, yet it is not mandatory
by law. Building contractors are paying attention to the radon issue
when building new homes. Radon-resistant construction features in
new homes are mandated in some areas of the country and can be included
in any new construction anywhere.
What can I do to protect my family from radon?
Testing for the presence of radon is the only way to know if there
is radon in your home. The tests are easy and inexpensive. Depending
on the testing method, the amount of radon is measured in picoCuries
per liter of air (pCi/L) or Working Levels (WL). Homes with radon
levels that are over 4 pCi/L or 0.02 WL should be evaluated and
fixed by a professional radon mitigation contractor. Tests can be
purchased at hardware stores, over the Internet, and by mail. A
professional radon mitigation contractor can also do the testing
for you.
If you decide to have your home tested for radon, please keep in
mind that there is always some radon in our homes. Radon naturally
exists in outside air (averages 0.4 pCi/L) and can enter a home
through windows and doors. The average home has a radon level of
1.3 pCi/L. The EPA suggests that levels within a home remain less
than 2 pCi/L. If your home has well water, it is advisable to have
your water tested too. Radon can be released into the air during
showers and other normal water usage.
Where can I get more information?
National Radon Hotline at (800) 55-RADON
Call, write or visit the Environmental Protection Agency's web
site.
Environmental Protection Agency Region 5
77 W. Jackson
Chicago, IL 60604
(312) 886-6003
www.epa.gov
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