You can’t see it, smell it, hear it, taste it, or touch it.
But it could be there, silently working to destroy you with every breath you
take.
Radon gas comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in
soil and rock; and it is found in buildings all over the United States: our
homes, places of employment, and schools – everywhere we live, work, sleep, learn
and play. Radon enters through cracks or gaps in the foundation, floors, walls,
and construction joints of old AND new buildings alike, and whether the home or
building has a basement or not. And it also finds its way in through our water
supply.
The Surgeon General states that radon is the second leading
cause of lung cancer following the number one cause of smoking; and radon is
the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers.
The Environmental Protection Agency states that an estimated
1 out of every 15 homes in the U.S. has elevated levels of radon; with 50% of
the homes tested in Ohio found to have elevated levels. Their allowable minimum
is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), yet they recommend taking measures to reduce
the level even if it is at or below 4 pCi/L because any amount can still pose a
risk to our health.
How can you determine if this silent killer is present in
your home? The Ohio Department of Health recommends hiring a licensed radon
tester to perform a radon test. These licensees are following strict procedures
for compliance with State of Ohio radon testing protocols and provide their
clients with accurate, detailed results.
Following your test results, if the level is found to be
above 4pCi/L, mitigation by an ODH licensed mitigation contractor is highly
recommended. There are simple solutions to reduce radon levels within your home
or workplace. The first step is finding out if you have a problem, and the
licensed radon testing home inspectors at TK Home Inspection can help!
