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Radon Testing in Schools

Testing a school for radon is simple and relatively inexpensive. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides guidance for schools that is available free to schools throughout the country.

In North Carolina, contact Radon Coordinator, Radon Specialist, for more information.

The basic elements of testing are:

• Test all frequently used rooms on and below the ground level - Because radon levels in schools have been found to vary significantly from room to room, schools should test all frequently-occupied rooms in contact with the ground.

• Conduct tests in the cooler months of the year.

• Follow the testing strategy below.

School Testing Strategy:

Step 1: Initial Testing - Take Short-term tests.
Step 2: Follow-up Testing - Take a second short-term test in rooms where the initial level is 4 pCi/L or higher. Take a long-term test in these rooms for a better understanding of the school-year average radon level.
Step 3: Take action to reduce levels if: The average of the initial and short-term follow-up test is 4 pCi/L or greater or the result of the long-term test is 4 pCi/L or greater.What happens if your school has higher than recommended radon levels?

Fortunately, even if your school has higher than the recommended radon level, the problem can be corrected. Proven techniques are available that will lower radon levels and lower risks of lung cancer from radon exposure.

More details on testing schools for radon.

EPA's Indoor Air Quality - Tools for Schools Information