Inexpensive Tests are Available to Detect the Cancer-Causing Gas
Also see "Radon in the Home" audio slide story
MANHATTAN, Kan. – Surveys in Kansas indicate that as many as 25 percent of homes are likely to have average concentrations of radon above the recommended maximum level, which makes it especially important that homeowners check for it, according to Bruce Snead, K-State Research and Extension residential energy specialist.
Radon awareness is recommended for everyone, said Snead, who noted that a $5 to $25 home test may be all that it takes to spare family members from lung cancer. Tests are available from many K-State Research and Extension offices and if done properly, are as accurate as professional tests.
Radon is a naturally occurring element produced from radioactive decay in the soil. The odorless, colorless and tasteless gas is cited as the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, and the second leading cause of lung cancer in the general population, Snead said.
Radon surveys have shown that approximately 6 percent of U.S. homes have average concentrations above the recommended maximum level.
“Testing is important, because it's the only sure way to tell how much of the gas is present,” said Snead, who explained that in Kansas since 1987, 41 percent or 20,592 of the 50,182 test results available had levels above the recommended ceiling of 4.0 pCi/L (Pico Curies per liter of air, is the unit of measurement).
Beginning July 1, 2011, all professional radon measurement and mitigation technicians and laboratories providing services in Kansas are required to obtain state certification. Lists of Kansas radon measurement and mitigation contractors who are certified by the state through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment are available at Kansas Radon Program.
More information about radon is available through the Kansas Radon Program at many K-State Research and Extension offices, online and by calling: 1-800-693-5343.
“Anyone can be vulnerable,” said Snead, who explained that the gas, which can seep from the soil beneath the foundation through cracks or joints into a home, is typically easy to detect and reduce at a moderate cost.
He recommends beginning with a home radon detector, which in its simplest form, can be purchased from many K-State Research and Extension offices for about $5, at home and hardware stores, and on the Internet, usually for $25 or less.
Tests should be conducted in the lowest lived-in level of the home, in a bedroom, living room or family room and about 20 to 24 inches above the floor for two to five days. The goal, said Snead, is to measure the potential for elevated concentrations which come from the soil beneath the home's foundation.
Testing in a kitchen or bathroom, which typically contain more humid air and more ventilation, is not recommended, he said, noting that it’s important to follow test directions.
“If the initial result is 4 pCi/L or higher take a follow-up test,” he said. “Consider installing a radon mitigation system for your home if the average of the first and second test is 4 pCi/L or higher.”
If the initial result is low, Snead recommends further testing if living patterns change. For example, if a family member begins to occupy a lower level, or if a significant change occurs in the foundation, heating/cooling systems, or insulation/air sealing features, further testing may be warranted.
He recommends hiring a professional contractor to install a mitigation system in the home, adding that professionals must be certified by KDHE to mitigate for radon.
In Kansas, since July 1, 2009, residential real estate contracts must contain a specific paragraph recommending radon testing in real estate transactions and disclosure of test results. There are, however, currently no laws requiring such tests or mitigation of high levels of radon, if found, the residential energy specialist said.
Radon programs at Kansas State University are supported by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Environmental Protection Agency, and serve as a state and national resource on radon awareness, testing, and mitigation.
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