January is National Radon Action Month
What is the number one cause of lung cancer? Smoking. What is the number two cause of lung disease? Radon exposure. Did you know that January is National Radon Action Month?
What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring odorless, colorless, radioactive gas produced by the decay of Uranium. While exposure to Radon is usually associated with residences, workplace exposures can occur as well. Some factories, mining, excavations, basements, and cellars may present radon risks. Risks vary by geographical location as the conditions which lead to radon concentration vary. The EPA developed a Radon Zone Map in 1993 for general guidance, though testing is recommended for precise levels. Radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter (of air). The EPA recommends immediate action to remediate Radon Exposure for levels above 4 pCi/L and to consider action for exposure levels between 2 pCi/L and 4 pCi/L.
What are the Symptoms of Radon Exposure?
Radon exposure produces both acute and chronic health effects including:
Coughing
Shortness of breath
Coughing up blood
Chest pain
Lung cancer
What is the Treatment for Radon Exposure?
Unfortunately, there is no treatment for Radon exposure and no test to diagnose Radon exposure according to webMD. Exposure prevention is key.
How to Protect Yourself from Radon Exposure?
Test your home or workplace. Some states offer free radon testing programs. See the EPA resource page for Regional, State and Tribal Radon Programs.
If you are building or buying a new home, have it tested for radon and implement repairs if needed, or if your home is above the EPA action levels above, work with a qualified contractor to conduct repairs to reduce or eliminate exposure.
Remediation may include but are not limited to sealing cracks and other openings in the foundation, installing ventilation systems, vapor barriers, and pressurization methods.
If you experience symptoms, seek out a qualified medical professional for diagnosis and test for lung cancer.
Are there Workplace Requirements?
Employers should work with an Industrial Hygienist and/or radiation safety professional to identify exposure levels and develop a remediation plan. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Ionizing Radiation Standard (29 CFR 1910.1096(d)(1)) requires employers to conduct surveys as necessary. Controls may include but are not limited to:
Monitoring worker Radon exposure to ensure exposures do not exceed the OSHA exposure limit for adult employees of 100 pCi/L averaged over a 40-hour work week.
Proper ventilation of the workplace with outdoor air to limit exposures to respiratory hazards as much as possible.
Properly fitted, selected, and maintained respirators with a formal respiratory protection program.