Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive gas, occupying number 86 on the Periodic Table of Elements. Although you can’t see, smell, or taste it, radon may already present a problem in your home. According to the Surgeon General, radon ranks as the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States today. Though not always required, testing for radon is always recommended. In addition, certain commercial development funding programs require radon testing. So why test for radon?
Radon typically enters a building through the soil or rock found beneath it, accessing the living space through cracks in the floors and walls, gaps around utility penetrations, and openings around sump pumps and drains, amongst other cracks and openings. Levels of the gas vary from building to building, so never assume that your neighbors’ radon test results will match yours. You can not predict radon levels based on a building’s age, foundation type, heating system, building materials, or any other features.
Why test for radon? Testing is the only way to learn about your property’s radon levels, because no other immediate symptoms will alert you to the presence of this inconspicuous gas. Many respected organizations recommend testing for radon as well, including the US EPA, the Surgeon General, the American Lung Association, the American Medical Association, and the National Safety Council. High levels of radon in a property can increase the occupants’ risk for developing lung cancer. According to some studies, children are especially sensitive to radon exposure.
Most problems resulting from radon will only surface after years of exposure. The issue of elevated radon levels exists throughout the country, and the US EPA estimates that as many as 8 million homes currently possess high levels of radon.
Some of the most common programs and projects that require radon testing are those funded by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). HUD provides funding for affordable, low-income developments, including housing and senior centers. If you are applying for a HUD-funded project, you must conduct radon testing if a structure is located on the property or in development. State-funded projects also require radon testing, including those financed by the Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC).
If you are in need of a radon measurement test for your commercial development, contact a radon measurement provider certified by the American Association of Radon Scientist and Technologists (AARST) and the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP). The AARST/NRPP website linked below provides a list of certified radon measurement providers specific to your area.
https://aarst-nrpp.com/wp/database-search/
Once you know that your commercial property contains elevated concentrations of radon, you can fix the problem by reducing the radon content to an acceptable level with the help of a professional.
For additional assistance with environmental due diligence, management, and remediation, contact Environmental Works, Inc. Our environmental consultants can assist with a variety of issues, including the presence of radon, asbestos, or lead-based paint. For more information, please give us a call at 417-890-9500.
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