FAQ

 

Q. What is radon? 

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A. Radon is a colorless, odorless, naturally occurring, inert radioactive gas that is the only gaseous element of the long, uranium-238 radioactive decay chain. Uranium is a common component of soil around the world. 

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Q. How do you test for radon? 

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A. The only way to learn of the presence of radon is to use an instrument or device that is designed to measure or detect it. (See the DNS Guide to Home Environment Radon Measurements; or if you are in a real estate transaction, see the DNS Radon Testing Guidelines for Real Estate Transactions.) 

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Q. I want to test my own house. Where do I place the detectors? 

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A. The Department recommends that residents test like the professionals do. Place two detectors in each lowest structural area suitable for occupancy. For instance, if your house includes a basement, an area over a slab, and an area over a crawlspace, TEST in at least one room in each area. The HIGHEST radon level in your home may not be in your basement.

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Q. What is sealing? 

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A. Sealing is any or all of the following activities: caulking the foundation wall joint, cracks and openings between the house and soil, covering and caulking the sump pit, and covering the crawlspace with membrane and adhering it to the walls and pillars therein. 

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Q. The mitigator's warranty guarantees the radon level is less than 4.0 pCi/L. Why do I need a post-mitigation test? 

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A. The mitigation contractor's warranty guarantees that the system will reduce radon levels to less than 4.0 pCi/L, when tested in accordance with the Measurement Protocol, 32 Illinois Administrative Code 422.130. Diagnostic testing, conducted by the mitigator may suggest that the radon level has been successfully lowered, but the only way to know that the system achieves the sought reduction is to perform a post-mitigation test in accordance with regulations. Relying on diagnostic testing that is neither standardized nor in accordance with regulatory requirements undermines the mitigation process. Further, it fails to document system performance and to activate your warranty in the event of system failure. 

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For more information on state laws, health and regulations use the following links:

 

https://www.illinois.gov/iema/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.lung.org/about-us/local-associations/illinois.html

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