Because of the presence of radon gas, many people are unaware that their homes may contain hidden dangers. The gas has no color, taste, or odor to give residents any kind of warning. Radon gas, which is naturally present in most soils, becomes a serious concern when it filters indoors, lingering and becoming concentrated. Certain workplaces, such as underground mining sites where radon levels can reach dangerously high levels, are also affected.
When radium decays, radon is produced as a natural gas. It is a known carcinogen, and health experts estimate that it causes 20,000 deaths from lung cancer each year in the United States alone. It has also been linked to stomach cancer in some cases, particularly when it has leached into drinking water supplies. Unfortunately, in the early stages of radon poisoning, patients do not show any obvious symptoms.
Obtaining a radon test and performing a radon measurement are the only ways to determine a home’s radon level and protect occupants. A variety of radon test kits are available for use at home. They are available for purchase both online and in local hardware stores. The kit can detect the presence of radon gas in a home after being left in place for a period of time.
There are also numerous remediation services available to assist homeowners. Some local and state government organizations even provide free test kits or low-cost alternatives. If homeowners are unsure about handling the details themselves, there are a number of certified professionals who can perform tests and, if necessary, remediation.
To check for the presence of radon gas indoors, there are two types of tests. The first tests the buildup of radon over a 48-hour period, while the second tests the buildup of radon over weeks or months to get a more accurate picture of the problem. According to health and safety experts, keeping the test kit away from humid areas like cooking and bathing areas can affect the results.
If a radon buildup is discovered in a home, the solution is simple — though not always inexpensive. More ventilation is the solution, particularly in modern homes that are designed to be more airtight than older homes. Ideally, during the construction process, builders will have installed safety features such as adequate ventilation, but this is not always the case.