Radon

   Radon is a dangerous radioactive gas that can seep into buildings and contaminate the air. High levels of radon are very damaging to the lungs, and the Surgeon General has warned that "radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States today. Only smoking causes more lung cancer deaths." Radon can also be found in groundwater, but radioactivity levels are much lower. Radon is invisible and tasteless, but it can be revealed with a radon testing kit found in local hardware stores. The EPA advises all homebuyers to test for radon, either with a kit or through professional testers.


A map detailing the severity of indoor radon levels in different counties, found on the state's website.

Zone One areas have an average predicted indoor radon screening potential greater than 4 pCi/l.

Zone Two areas are predicted to have an average indoor radon screening potential between 2 pCi/l and 4 pCi/l.

Zone Three areas are predicted to have an average indoor radon screening potential less than 2 pCi/l.

This map was created from the EPA's map of Radon Zones.  It depicts the potential for radon in indoor air in a given area.  The EPA calls this the "predicted indoor radon screening potential".  Zone One areas have an average predicted indoor radon screening potential greater than 4 pCi/l.  Zone Two areas are predicted to have an average indoor radon screening potential between 2 pCi/l and 4 pCi/l.   Zone Three areas are predicted to have an average indoor radon screening potential less than 2 pCi/l.  These predicted radon levels are based on physical characteristics like geology and soil types.  It should be used as an aid for predicting the radon potential for a given area.  Homes with elevated levels of radon have been found in all three zones.  All homes should be tested for radon, regardless of zone designation.  Contact the Division of Radiation Protection for further information.


More information can be found on:

the EPA's Home Buyer's and Seller's Guide to Radon

the EPA's A Citizen's Guide to Radon

the EPA's Consumer's Guide to Radon Reduction

How to Find a Qualified Radon Service Professional in Your Area

National Radon Hotline at 800-SOS-RADON

Guidelines for Construction of Radon-Resistant Homes

Council of American Building Officials, One- And Two-Family Dwelling Code, Appendix F. (708) 799-2300.
American Society for Testing and Materials, ASTM Standard Guide (E1465-92). (215) 299-5585.
The EPA, Model Construction Standard (EPA 402R-94-009). (202) 260-7751.



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