| Testing for Radon |
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| On This Page |
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Performing Home Tests Yourself
Using a Radon Measurement Company
Different Types of Radon Test Devices
Results & Reccomendations
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| Types of Radon Tests |
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Several different measurement methods may be used to determine the radon concentrations in structures. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages. Users must decide which method is best suited to their situation. The Public Health Division recommends a method which will provide an annual average radon concentration in the living area of a structure. The following details the characteristics of the methods, pointing out some of the advantages and disadvantages of each one. The following information is intended to guide the user in making an informed selection of a measurement method.
| Short-term tests last from 2-90 days whereas long-term tests last from 91 days to 1 year. Various other dynamic testing methods are also available but are generally much more expensive to use. |
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Activated Carbon Adsorption (AC) & Charcoal Liquid Scintillation (LS) - Short Term
Both of these methods absorb radon gas on activated charcoal but different equipment is used for analysis. The detectors for these methods consist of various configured containers filled with a measured amount of activated charcoal. The container is perforated or screened and has a filter to keep out radon decay products. All charcoal adsorbers are stored in air-tight containers before and after sampling.
Charcoal adsorbers are installed from two to seven days. At the end of testing, the adsorber is resealed and returned to the vendor for processing and evaluation.
- Advantages
- Low cost for services; costs may range from $10 to $25 for each detector.
- Practical for screening purposes over a short time period.
Disadvantages
- Some charcoal adsorbers are more sensitive than others to temperature and humidity.
- Limited to short term testing.
Alpha-Track Detection (AT) - Long Term
The detector is a small sheet of special plastic material enclosed in a container with a filter-covered opening. The radon gas that enters the container decays, emitting alpha particles. The particles strike the plastic sheet, leaving tracks that can be chemically enhanced and counted using a microscope or an automated counting system.
The detectors are installed according to instructions supplied by the vendor. They are left for periods from one to three months for screening and from three to twelve months for long-term evaluations. At the end of the desired testing period, they are returned to the vendor for processing and evaluation.
Advantages
Relatively low-cost services ranging from $15 to $30 for each detector.
Can measure the long-term average concentrations over a twelve-month period.
Disadvantages
Relatively long measurement period necessary; three months is the recommended minimum for most detectors.
Continuous Radon Monitoring (CR)
There are three types of CR monitors used for radon measurements: 1) Scintillation, 2) Ionization Chamber, and 3) Solid-State Detection. This type of radon monitoring follows the ambient radon levels within a short time lag due to the inherent delay of the radon decay products.
Advantages
Follows the variations in radon levels.
Provides radon data on location.
Has the highest accuracy and precision over short measurement periods.
Disadvantages
High cost for service requiring a professional to perform the measurement.
Limited primarily to short-term testing.
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| Preforming a Radon Test Yourself |
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Testing your home is easy and inexpensive. You can order a short-term or long-term test kit by downloading the coupon here (pdf). For additional information on choosing which test kit to use click here.
Follow the instructions that come with your test kit. The testing device should be placed in the lowest living area of a structure. It should be placed in a room that is used regularly, but not in a kitchen, bathroom or storeroom. Place the device at least 20 inches above the floor in a location where it will not be disturbed -- away from drafts, high heat, high humidity, and exterior walls. Leave the testing device in place for the specified time. When the test is completed, immediately seal the device in the packet provided and return it to the vendor in the pre-addressed mailer.
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| Test Results & Reccomendations |
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Radon is measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/l). An annual average concentration below 4 pCi/l in the lowest floor or level of the home used does not present a significant health hazard. We are all exposed to a certain amount of naturally-occurring radon and other radiation every day.
| The Oregon Health Division recommends the following actions when the initial short-term testing results for radon are received from the testing lab: |
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- At levels below 4 pCi/L, no further action is recommended.
- At levels between 4-10 pCi/L, conduct a long-term test to verify results prior to taking corrective action.
- At levels between 10-20 pCi/L, conduct a second short-term test to verify initial results.
- If the average of the two tests exceeds 4 pCi/L, plan on taking action to reduce the level of radon.
Remember radon testing and mitigation companies are no longer required to be certified through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA ). Since 1998, voluntary certification through several nationally recognized organizations has replaced the former U.S. EPA program. These national certifying organizations include National Environmental Health Association NEHA and the National Radon Saftey Board NRSB.
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| Radon Measurement & Mitigation Companies |
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The following is a list of companies or individuals that provide radon measurement or mitigation services to Oregon. Some companies have been certified by the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) or the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB ).
This list should be used for informational purposes only and is not intended to be an endorsement by the Oregon Department of Human Services of any testing device or company. These organizations are not the only sources of radon testing devices or services.
There may be additional companies listed in your local phone book under "Radon Testing". There are additional organizations outside Oregon that can provide radon testing devices or services, and testing devices may be available through hardware stores.
Before purchasing, one should verify that the device or service meets the current requirements of the national certifying organizations, e.g. NEHA or NRSB.
The office of Radiation Protection Services has information available and can provide upon request a current list of all certified companies in neighboring states or nationwide that service Oregon. The following companies can provide radon kits and/or perform radon measurements in accordance with EPA protocols:
Measurement Companies (pdf)
Mitigation Companies (pdf)
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