Average Radon Level In Florida: 1.8 pCi/L
The EPA advises that any home or building in Florida 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 Florida: 1.8 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.
Understanding Radon in Florida
Radon in Florida is a significant concern for homeowners and residents due to its potential health risks. This naturally occurring radioactive gas can seep into homes from the ground, leading to potentially dangerous indoor radon levels. The radon levels in Florida vary across the state, with some areas having higher concentrations than others. It’s crucial to understand the risks associated with radon exposure and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe living environment.
The Health Risks For Radon In Florida
Exposure to high levels of radon in Florida can lead to serious health issues, including:
- Lung cancer: Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.
- Respiratory problems: Long-term exposure to radon can lead to respiratory issues such as chronic cough and shortness of breath.
- Other health risks: While less common, some studies suggest a link between radon exposure and other types of cancer, such as leukemia.
Radon Levels in Florida
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. It is produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. Long-term exposure to high levels of radon can lead to lung cancer. In Florida, radon levels can vary greatly depending on the location and the structure of the building.
Radon Levels in Florida Homes
- According to the Florida Department of Health, radon levels in Florida homes can range from less than 1 pCi/L to more than 100 pCi/L.
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends taking action to reduce radon in homes that have a radon level at or above 4 pCi/L.
- It is estimated that one in every five Florida homes has elevated radon levels.
Radon Testing in Florida
Radon testing is the only way to know if your home or building has high levels of radon. The Florida Department of Health recommends that all homes be tested for radon.
- Testing is inexpensive and easy, and it could save your life.
- Florida law requires that radon measurement and mitigation professionals be certified by the Florida Department of Health.
- Radon tests can be conducted by homeowners using a do-it-yourself kit or by a certified radon measurement professional.
Radon Mitigation in Florida
If your home or building has a high radon level, there are ways to reduce it. This process is called radon mitigation.
- Common radon mitigation methods include soil suction, which prevents radon from entering your home by drawing the radon from below the home and venting it through a pipe to the air above the home where it is quickly diluted.
- Sealing cracks and other openings in the floors and walls is another method. This limits the flow of radon into your home from the soil below.
- Florida law requires that radon mitigation be performed by a certified radon mitigation professional.
Additional Resources About Radon Levels In Florida
Here are some resources for reading about radon levels in Florida:
- Florida Department of Health – Radon Program: This is the official page of the Florida Department of Health’s Radon Program. It provides information about radon, its health risks, and how to test for it.
- EPA Map of Radon Zones – Florida: This page from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides information about radon zones in Florida and contact information for state radon programs.
- Florida Radon, Uranium & Radium Testing: This is a Florida-based company that provides radon testing services. They also provide information about radon and its risks.
- Development of a Radon Protection Map for Large Buildings in Florida: This is a research study conducted by the Florida Building Commission about radon levels in Florida buildings.
- CDC – Radon in the Home: This page from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides general information about radon, including its health risks and how to test for it.