Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that results from the decay of uranium found in trace amounts in soil, rock, and water. Radon is the main source of our exposure to all radiation. In fact, 55% of all radiation to which we are exposed comes from radon gas. Outdoor radon is not a threat. However, radon gas can enter homes or other buildings and can accumulate to dangerous levels. Because we spend so much time indoors, exposure to such levels of radon over a long time can pose a serious health risk.
FACT: THE US SURGEON GENERAL AND THE US ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY HAVE DETERMINED RADON IS SECOND ONLY TO SMOKING AS A LEADING CAUSE OF LUNG CANCER.
How Metro Boston’s radon testing works:
- Closed-building conditions must be maintained for 12 hours prior to the initiation of the test and during the test. All windows on all levels and external doors must be kept closed (except for momentary events such as normal entry and exit) before and during the test period.
- Heating and cooling systems must be set to normal occupied operating temperatures and their fan/blower controls must be set to normal intermittent activity unless the continuous activity is a permanent setting. Window air conditioning units must only be operated in a recirculating mode. Equipment that supplies fresh air to the dwelling must be deactivated except for make-up air to a combustion appliance.
- Whole house fans must not be operated. Window fans should be removed or sealed shut. Wood burning fireplaces must not be operated unless they are the primary sources of heat for the dwelling. Avoid excessive operation of clothes dryers, range hoods, bathroom fans and other mechanical systems that draw air out of the building.
- If the results are above 4.0 pCi/L EPA recommends the installation of a radon mitigation system.
Call Us Today (781) 828-1972 to get the most comprehensive home inspection in the Eastern MA & Northern RI area. Metro Boston Property Inspections has been perfecting the art of Home Inspections since 1998. We’ve kept up as the industry has continued to evolve with new standards and more advanced technology, but one thing has remained consistent: our dedication to providing the best Home Inspection solutions.
