Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Indoor Air Pollutants: Radon (Rn)

Sources: Earth and rock beneath home; well water; building materials.
Health Effects: No immediate symptoms. Estimated to contribute to between 7,000 and 30,000 lung cancer deaths each year. Smokers are at higher risk of developing radon-induced lung cancer.
Levels in Homes: Based on a national residential radon survey completed in 1991, the average indoor radon level is 1.3 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The average outdoor level is about 0.4 pCi/L. Steps to Reduce Exposure: 
  • Test your home for radon, it's easy and inexpensive. 
  • Fix your home if your radon level is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher. 
  • Radon levels less than 4 pCi/L still pose a risk, and in many cases may be reduced. 
  • If you want more information on radon, contact your state radon office, or call 800-SOS-RADON.

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