pressure differentials , the levels at which radon may be found can be far more dangerous .
When radon gas decays , whether in one ’ s lungs or within room air , it produces both high energy particles and decay products which are themselves radioactive . Additionally , in room air , the decay products can attach to easily-inhaled particles such as housedust . When an individual inhales these particles — and the radioactive decay products attached to them — they get lodged in their lungs , allowing them the opportunity to damage and alter DNA , which can then potentially cause lung cancer . These processes are what makes radon such a potent and dangerous carcinogen .
Radon gas can be found in any building , such as homes , apartment buildings , daycare centers , commercial buildings , and even schools . The gas tends to enter buildings through cracks in the foundation due to temperature and pressure “ chimney effects ,” and then gets trapped in areas of poor ventilation , such as basements . When this gas accumulates to levels above 4 pCi / L , the threshold defined by the EPA , it is vital to take corrective action before the exposure becomes too prolonged .
The importance of continuous radon monitoring
Thankfully , there are professional and consumer tests available to test for and identify the radon levels in your home or building . Knowing this information can be helpful in cases where an individual suspects that they may be exposed to radon at a dangerous level exceeding 4 pCi / L . Still , the reality is that radon levels can be highly volatile , affected by factors such as weather-based atmospheric conditions such as temperature and barometric pressure .
Because of the fluctuating nature of radon levels , a single test — or even a series of tests over a short period — may be ineffective at identifying whether or not you are at risk of radon exposure and developing lung cancer . Instead , you must continuously monitor the radon in your home or building . This often involves a professional coming in and deploying a device that allows them to monitor radon levels , and to recommend mitigation measures when levels pass the EPA ’ s guideline thresholds .
When radon is present in levels between the ambient outdoor level of 0.4 pCi / L and 2 pCi / L , it can be difficult to reduce it further . However , once levels exceed 2 pCi / L — but especially once they exceed 4 pCi / L — a professional must be brought in to mitigate the levels . This can be done by increasing the home ’ s ventilation or taking measures to seal cracks and penetrations in slabs or foundations
While homeowners would like to think that the radon levels in their homes are likely safe enough , there is no way to know whether you are being exposed to this radioactive gas at harmful levels unless you test for it . The best way to ensure that you are safe from the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers is proactive , continuous radon monitoring . If you opt for continuous monitoring , and notice that radon levels are beginning to rise abnormally high , you can take simple measures to increase ventilation , or , if sustained , consult a radon professional .
Opinions expressed by The Chicago Journal contributors are their own .
Allen Braun Allen is a freelance writer and environmentalist whose main topic is all about nature , health , lifestyle , music and travel . He ’ s an outspoken person and joins groups and organizations that protects the animal rights and advocate of nature .