Radon Testing
Where does Radon come from? Radon comes from the natural (radioactive) breakdown of uranium deposits in soil, rock and water and gets into the air you breathe inside your home.
Radon can be found all over the U.S. It can get into any type of building regardless of the type of construction. You and your family are most likely to get your greatest exposure at home, where you spend most of your time. The majority of Central Ohio counties are listed as Zone 1 “Highest” from the US EPA. Over 20,000 people get Lung Cancer each year because of Radon. Radon is the second leading cause of Lung Cancer in the United States, only smokers get have a higher chance of getting Lung Cancer.
How does it get inside a building? Most buildings or homes are somewhat sealed resulting in a lower pressure than the outside air resulting in a vacuum effect allowing radon gas to seep through foundations, concrete slabs and other building materials.
Important Facts: Any type of home or building can contain high levels of radon gas. It is a myth that a home without a basement will not have high levels of radon gas. Slab on grade homes, walk-out basements and schools often have high levels of radon gas. Any type of building that is anchored to the earth is at risk. Testing is recommended for any type of building that is occupied for long periods of time. The EPA also recommends that homes be tested once every two (2) years.
How Much Radon in Your Home is Too Much?
The most typical measurement of Radon gas in air is in Pico Curies per Liters usually represented as pCi/L.A PicoCurie is an amount of radiation and a liter is a volume of air.
The EPA recommends a homeowner mitigate at a level of 4.0 pCiL or higher, however you should check out the EPA’s risk chart to make your own personal assessments and decisions. The lower the radon level in your home the safer you and your family are. The world Health Organization recommends mitigation when radon levels are above 2.7 pCiL.