What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas formed from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It can enter buildings, including schools, homes, and offices, through cracks in the foundation. Radon is invisible and odorless, so you must test to detect it. Radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer deaths in the United States.
Where is Radon found?
Radon can be found in homes and buildings across the country. Radon levels vary based on geology. Pennsylvania has one of the most serious radon problems in the United States. Approximately 40% of homes have radon levels above the EPA’s action guideline of 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). Search for radon test data by zip code in Pennsylvania. The only way to know if your home has radon is to test because rates can vary widely, even between next door neighbors.
Health risks with Radon
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. The EPA estimates that over 20,000 people die of lung cancer each year in the United States. The risk increases with higher radon levels and longer exposure. People who smoke have a greater risk when exposed to radon.
How can I protect my family?
Testing is the only way to know if your home has radon. You can use a short-term (2-90 days) test for quicker results or a long-term (90+ days) test that will give a better result. The ideal time for radon testing is during late fall and winter months when the home is more airtight.
The American Lung Association and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection are working together to provide radon test kits to Pennsylvania residents who have not yet tested their homes. Health agencies recommend retesting your home every few years as radon levels can change.
Contractor Information
Professionals who test for or mitigate radon must be properly certified. In Pennsylvania, the Department of Environmental Protection provides certification. Certified professionals are trained to accurately measure radon levels and install systems that safely reduce exposure.
- Radon Certification | Department of Environmental Protection | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
- A Guide to Hiring a Radon Mitigation Contractor in Pennsylvania | ROCIS
- Consumer’s Guide to Radon Reduction – How to Fix Your Home | EPA
- Radon Services Directory | PA Department of Environmental Protection
Resources
Women for a Healthy Environment Fact Sheets
Learn more about Radon
- A Citizen’s Guide to Radon | EPA
- Health Risk of Radon | US EPA
- Pennsylvania – EPA Map of Radon Zones
- Radon | US EPA
- Radon and Your Health | Radon | CDC
- Radon Hotlines and Information Resources | US EPA
- Radon in the Home | Allegheny County, PA
- Radon in the Home | PA Department of Environmental Protection
- Radon Resources | ROCIS
- Radon | Department of Health | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
