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Radon In Colorado

Average Radon Level In Colorado: 6.8 pCi/L

The EPA advises that any home or building in Colorado with radon levels at or exceeding 4.0 pCi/L should undergo mitigation. Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) sets a lower threshold, recommending action for radon concentrations of 2.7 pCi/L or above.

  • EPA's Action Level: 4.0 pCi/L
  • WHO's Action Level: 2.7 pCi/L
  • Average Level In Colorado: 6.8 pCi/L

Living or working in areas with elevated radon levels can pose significant health risks. The only reliable method to ascertain the radon concentration in your specific home or building is through radon testing. This is a crucial step in ensuring your environment is safe and adheres to recommended health standards.

Average Radon Level In Colorado

Understanding Radon in Colorado

Radon in Colorado is a significant environmental health concern that residents should be aware of. This naturally occurring radioactive gas is invisible, odorless, and tasteless, making it difficult to detect without specialized equipment. The radon levels in Colorado are higher than the national average due to the state’s unique geology, with many areas having a high potential for elevated radon levels. It’s crucial for homeowners and potential buyers to test for radon to ensure the safety of their homes.

The Health Risks For Radon In Colorado

Exposure to high levels of radon can lead to serious health issues. Some of the risks associated with radon in Colorado include:

  • Long-term exposure to radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers and the second leading cause in smokers.
  • Children are more susceptible to the harmful effects of radon due to their faster breathing rates and rapidly dividing cells.
  • Even low levels of radon can contribute to the development of lung cancer over time.

Radon Levels in Colorado

Colorado is known for its beautiful landscapes, outdoor activities, and vibrant cities. However, it’s also known for something less pleasant: high radon levels. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer. It’s colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it difficult to detect without proper testing.

Why are Radon Levels High in Colorado?

The high radon levels in Colorado are primarily due to the state’s geology. Colorado’s soil contains uranium that decays to produce radon gas. This gas can seep into homes and buildings through cracks in the foundation, gaps around service pipes, construction joints, and other openings.

Radon Levels by Colorado Counties

  • El Paso County: The average indoor radon level is 6.4 pCi/L, which is higher than the EPA’s recommended action level of 4 pCi/L.
  • Denver County: The average indoor radon level is 4.6 pCi/L, slightly above the EPA’s recommended action level.
  • Boulder County: The average indoor radon level is 6.8 pCi/L, significantly higher than the EPA’s recommended action level.

Reducing Radon Levels in Colorado Homes

There are several ways to reduce radon levels in Colorado homes. These include:

  • Sealing cracks and openings in the foundation of the home.
  • Installing a radon mitigation system, which uses a vent pipe and fan to draw radon from beneath the house and vent it to the outside.
  • Regularly testing for radon to ensure levels remain safe.

Conclusion

While Colorado’s radon levels are a cause for concern, homeowners can take steps to protect themselves and their families. Regular testing and mitigation efforts can significantly reduce the risk of radon exposure.

Additional Resources About Radon Levels In Colorado

Here are some resources for reading about radon levels in Colorado: