One of the critical ways the radon industry ensures best practices is through the development of national standards, many of which are maintained by the Indoor Environments Association. But the public has an important voice in shaping those standards.
Radon exposure is a genuine concern for many New Mexico communities, with significant radon levels documented across various counties that dramatically exceed the EPA's recommended action threshold.
Due to the state's diverse geological features, including uranium-rich rock formations, radon levels can be dangerously high in certain areas of Arizona, including Coconino County, Gila County, and Graham County.
Radon infiltrates homes and businesses particularly through basements, posing significant health risks such as respiratory illnesses and lung cancer. Radon mitigation strategies vary based on whether basements are finished or unfinished, with different sealing and ventilation qualities influencing radon levels and the effectiveness of treatments.
To help protect home and business owners in the Southwest, we have compiled valuable resources covering radon, its associated health risks, and how to best protect and educate yourself.
For property owners, occupants, or onsite maintenance techs, maintaining and monitoring both radon levels and mitigation systems can be extremely complicated. That's why it’s recommended by AARST and all radon professionals that you establish a Radon Operation, Maintenance, and Monitoring Plan, or OM&M for short.
Radon is a widespread problem across the US, especially in the Southwest which has historically high levels of indoor radon. However, it's important to note that radon levels can vary from state to state, county to county, and even from home to home. As such, if a home in your neighborhood has tested high for indoor radon, it's imperative that you take action to protect your own home from this invisible hazard.
Exposure to indoor radon is a serious health risk for home and business owners. This colorless, odorless, tasteless gas is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and is responsible for over 20,000 deaths per year. To help raise awareness, promote radon testing, and educate our communities about the dangers of radon, the EPA has designated January as National Radon Action Month here in the United States.
Though it varies from state to state and even county to county, indoor radon is a hazard of which all homeowners should be aware. This naturally occurring radioactive gas is the leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers in the US and is found in homes across the country, including the American Southwest. As such, the EPA and NRPP strongly advise all homeowners to have their property tested prior to purchase and have an appropriate mitigation system installed.
