Radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, and chemically inert radioactive gas. It is formed by the natural radioactive decay of uranium in rock, soil, and water. Naturally existing, low levels of uranium occur widely in Earth's crust. It can be found in all 50 states. Unless you test for it, there is no way of telling how much is present.

Resources

Links

Documents

"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has numerous publications covering various aspects of radon and indoor air quality. For a list of these publications, please visit http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/index.html"

Radon Proficiency

The EPA stopped operating its National Radon Proficiency Program (RPP) on October 1, 1998. That program was designed to test radon contractors and provide a measure of quality control. The RPP is now privately run. See the EPA's Web site regarding the RPP for information on how to identify qualified contractors.

Many states certify or license radon contractors. Call your state radon office for information about qualified service providers in your state.

If you plan to fix the problem in your home yourself, you should first contact your state radon office for EPA's technical guide, "Radon Reduction Techniques for Detached Houses."

Publications

The EPA has publications that are designed to provide consumers with information about radon.

Home Buyers and Sellers Guide

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This booklet is intended for anyone who is buying or selling a home, real estate and relocation professionals, home inspectors and others.

Explains to buyers and sellers what they need to know about testing and what the test results mean.

Consumer's Guide to Radon Reduction

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You have tested your home for radon, but now what? This recently revised booklet is for people who have tested their home for radon and confirmed that they have elevated radon levels 4 pCi/L or .02 WL or higher. This booklet can help you:

  • Select a qualified contractor to reduce the radon levels in your home
  • Determine an appropriate radon reduction method
  • Maintain your radon reduction system

A Citizen's Guide to Radon

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This recently revised guidance offers strategies for testing your home,describes follow-up options, and discusses radon risks and myths.

  • How to Test your Home
  • What do Test Results Mean?
  • State Contacts

Building Radon Out

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This 81-page, fully illustrated guide is an excellent resource for home buyers and home builders who want to know about radon-resistant new construction (RRNC), including:

  • Basic questions and detailed answers about radon and RRNC;
  • Specific planning steps before installing a system;
  • Detailed installation instructions with helpful illustrations;
  • Tips and tricks when installing a system;
  • Marketing know-how when dealing with homebuyers; and
  • Architectural drawings.

Outreach

  • Camera-ready radon test kit coupons for short-term kits and Radon PowerPoint presentations are available to governments, companies, or organizations wishing to conduct radon outreach.
  • Call the National Radon Helpline for more information at (800)557-2366 or email radon@ksu.edu.
  • State Radon Contacts - Names and phone and fax numbers of all state radon offices.

Health Risk Studies and References