Radon is a by-product of the decomposition of uranium. It is a colorless, odorless, and radioactive gas that cannot be detected by humans. As naturally occurring gas, it cannot be eliminated. A high level of radon is most common in the Northern, Midwestern, and Southwestern states including Maryland. However, radon concentration may reach dangerous and toxic levels in any state depending on where your home is located. Since radon exists in all 50 states, and can only be detected by radon testing, it is recommended to have your homes regularly tested for radon.
What level of radon gas is safe?
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 1 out of every 15 U.S. homes has radon levels above the acceptable level. No level of radon gas is completely safe; however, the acceptable safe level of radon is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). Prolonged radon exposure in high concentration, increased your risk of getting lung cancer by 50%. You can check the EPA Radon Zone map to check your region’s radon concentration level. The EPA Radon map is color-coded into zones based on predicted radon concentration and highlights areas down to the county level in every state.
Radon Tests
It is impossible to know if your home or office is contaminated unless you have a radon detector. While the EPA does not regulate or qualify specific radon test products, it has established minimum accuracy performance criteria. There are different radon detectors you can use, some of the popular detectors are Safety Siren and Airthings. Safety Siren can be used for short-term and long-term radon monitoring. It sounds like an alarm in case of the radon level reading is above the set limit. This is applicable for individuals who might not have the time to regularly check the radon reading. Airthings can also be used for short-term and long-term radon monitoring. Compared to other radon detectors, it does not need regular recalibrating or reprogramming.
Regular radon testing and radon mitigation by professional radon inspectors are needed especially in areas with a high concentration of uranium, thorium, and radium. At Atlantic Radon, we provide quality radon testing and radon mitigation services. Keep your family safe from Radon. You can schedule a radon testing in Annapolis, Columbia, Ellicott City, Crofton, and Gaithersburg with us. It is important to make sure your home is safe from radon. To learn more about radon testing in Annapolis, Columbia, Ellicott City, Crofton, and Gaithersburg, fill out our contact form.
