Your Guide To Radon Testing Resources in 2024

Radon poses a significant threat to human health, but with proper testing and removal, its negative effects can be mitigated. In this guide, we will share valuable radon testing resources, as well as our professional recommendations for addressing this invisible threat.

Understanding the Danger of Radon Exposure

Radon is a radioactive, carcinogenic, and virtually undetectable gas. Although radon is dispersed outdoors, the real danger lies in its ability to get trapped inside buildings, seeping through cracks in foundations and other openings.

As radon spreads throughout homes and commercial buildings, it compromises the air that humans breathe in. Inhaling radon exposes lung cells to radiation, damaging DNA and increasing the risk of lung cancer. Radon can also contaminate well water used for daily activities. Urgent testing is essential to minimize the health risks associated with radon exposure.

How and When to Test for Radon

The radon testing process is relatively simple, with the option to hire professional testing or invest in at-home test kits. Before the radon test period, all occupants should be educated on the importance of keeping windows and doors closed.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends testing homes for radon at least once, with retesting every two years. Retesting is advisable for three distinct cases:

• If a home has not been tested for radon before.
• If a home has undergone significant renovations.
• If a home has a radon reduction system in place – to ensure its proper functioning.

Top Radon Testing Resources

Your approach to radon testing and mitigation might be impacted by your budget and existing knowledge of radon safety and exposure. Here are some of the most valuable radon testing resources for you, your household, or your commercial property:

EPA Radon Website

The EPA provides comprehensive information on radon, including testing methods, health risks, and mitigation strategies. You may find their free information to be helpful before, during, and after the radon test period.

Radon Testing Kits

Radon testing kits are available for purchase at hardware stores, through laboratories, and through radon testing companies. These kits include instructions for conducting an accurate radon test.

State Radon Programs

Check with your state’s health department or environmental agency for region-specific radon information.

Radon Mitigation Information

If test results indicate elevated radon levels, mitigation measures may be necessary. The EPA website and local health departments offer information on strategies such as sub-slab depressurization systems and ventilation.

Radon Hotlines and Helplines

Some areas have radon hotlines or helplines offering information and assistance. Check with your local health department for available helplines.

Professional Radon Testing Services

For a comprehensive assessment, it is recommended that you hire a trusted radon inspector, such as LEW Environmental Services.

What to Do After Testing

If testing was done without a professional, hiring one for result interpretation and creating a radon mitigation plan is recommended. At this point, all building occupants should be informed about the radon mitigation system that will be installed.

What We Covered

Understanding the dangers of radon is crucial for protecting human health. The sooner you can test for radon inside of your building, the better. At LEW Environmental, we provide certified radon testing throughout New York City, New Jersey, and Long Island. Talk to an expert on our team to get started on radon testing and mitigation.