Illinois School Identifies Radon Levels 8 Times Greater than EPA's Guidelines

Results of a radon test performed in a LeGrange, Illinois elementary school showed dangerously high radon levels, leaving parents and staff in fear.

NBC 5 Chicago reported that radon levels in some classrooms of Pleasantdale Elementary were more than eight times the recommended level that the Environmental Protection Agency considers safe.

Radon gas is found everywhere

Radon gas is a known carcinogen that is linked to lung cancer and other health problems. Radon is invisible, odorless, and tasteless, which makes it impossible to detect without testing.

The EPA estimates that more than 20,000 lung cancer deaths each year are caused by radon.

The EPA suggests that radon levels be kept under 4 pCi/L. The elementary school in Illinois showed elevated levels of radon gas in 15 classrooms. In one classroom, radon levels were found to be at 34.8 pCi/L. An office was at 25.3 and another classroom was at 12.4.

According to the EPA, proper ventilation can help alleviate radon problems in schools, but in some cases, increased ventilation can make the existing problem worse.

Schools are not the only place where you have to worry about radon exposure. A majority of our exposure to radon occurs at home, where we spend most of our time. Radon testing is the only way to determine your risk and whether action is needed.

Early detection is key to protecting yourself against radon-induced lung cancer

MidAmerica Basement Systems can provide you with accurate do-it-yourself radon test kits. The test kits come with simple instructions and can be setup in just minutes. Once test results are back, we can help you decide whether radon mitigation is necessary and install the best system for your home.

We also offer HUD multi-family radon policy testing. Contact us today to learn more!