2
Facts and Concerns Regarding Radon Gas
Radon is a radioactive gas that is colorless, odorless, and
tasteless and is impossible to detect without the use of
sensitive test equipment. Radon is a naturally occurring gas
produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and
water. When allowed to accumulate to high levels, it can be
hazardous to long-term health. The Surgeon General has
warned that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer
in the United States. Only cigarette smoking causes more
lung cancer deaths.
HS71512 - USA
The EPA presently suggests that corrective action be taken to
reduce the radon levels in your home if measured over the
long term at 4.0 pCi/L or greater. For more information
regarding radon gas, please visit the EPA web site at
http://www.epa.gov/radon/index.html
HS79712 - Canada
The Minister of Health recommends that remedial measures should
be undertaken in a dwelling whenever the annual average radon
concentration exceeds 200 Bq/m
3
in the normal occupancy area.
For more information regarding radon gas, please visit the Health
Canada website at: http://www.healthcanada.gc.ca/radon.
Location of the Detector
The detector should be placed in the lowest living area of the
home in a location where it will not be disturbed. The
audible alarm should be able to be heard from areas
frequented on a daily basis. A second detector placed in a
basement room rarely used, is also a good means to
determine the level of radon in the home.
Location of the detector should be at least 3 feet from
windows, doors, or any other potential openings in the
exterior walls. The location of the detector should be at least
1 foot from the exterior wall and at least 20 inches from the
floor. No other object should be placed within 4 inches of
the detector.
