EPA Urges all Homeowners to Test for Radon

EPA Urges all Homeowners to Test for Radon By Jessica Karns

January is National Radon Action Month. As part of the effort to spread public awareness, the EPA has urged all homeowners to have their home tested for radon.

“Testing for radon is the best way to know if people in your home are at risk from this cancer-causing gas,” said EPA Regional Administrator Shawn M. Garvin. “Radon is a problem that can be easily fixed, and I urge all residents to test their homes. If your home is impacted by radon, it is fairly easy to fix.”
Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer amongst non-smokers. Radon occurs naturally from the decay of uranium in the soil and can accumulate to dangerous levels inside a building.  Radon is a nationwide problem that can be found in any building that has ground contact.  This includes Homes, Schools, apartments, condos, commercial buildings and offices.  Even mobile homes and homes/buildings with no basements have a potential for having high radon levels.

Radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas. Unlike other gasses, it cannot be seen or felt by normal senses. The only way to know if your home has high levels is to perform a radon test.   These are specially designed kits that are deployed for a minimum of 48 hours to detect the level of radon that exists in the lowest level suitable for living in the home.

It is important to note that in order to get accurate results, the tests must be deployed according to specific protocols set by the EPA and the State health departments. The best way to ensure a valid test is to hire a licensed and or certified radon testing professional. Each states has their own set of requirements for radon professionals so it is important to check with your state EPA or Health Department to make sure your professional is fully licensed and certified.