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Radon In Hawaii

Average Radon Level In Hawaii: pCi/L

The EPA advises that any home or building in Hawaii 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 Hawaii: 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 Hawaii

Understanding Radon in Hawaii

Radon in Hawaii is a significant concern due to the state’s unique geological features. This naturally occurring radioactive gas is produced by the decay of uranium found in soil and rocks. The radon levels in Hawaii can vary greatly depending on the location, with some areas having higher concentrations than others. It’s crucial for residents to understand the potential risks and take appropriate measures to ensure their homes are safe.

The Health Risks For Radon in Hawaii

Exposure to high levels of radon can lead to serious health issues. In Hawaii, these risks include:

  • Increased risk of lung cancer, especially for smokers.
  • Potential harm to children, as their lungs are more sensitive to radon.
  • Chronic respiratory problems such as bronchitis and pneumonia.

Radon Levels in Hawaii

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. It is produced by the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. While radon is found throughout the United States, the levels can vary greatly from one location to another. In Hawaii, the radon levels are generally lower than the national average, but there are still areas where the levels can be higher.

Radon Testing in Hawaii

  • The Hawaii State Department of Health recommends that all homes in Hawaii be tested for radon, regardless of the geographic location or type of home.
  • Testing is the only way to know if your home has elevated radon levels because radon is invisible and has no smell.
  • Radon test kits are available at local hardware stores, online, or directly from radon testing laboratories.

Radon Mitigation in Hawaii

If your home tests high for radon, there are effective ways to reduce the radon levels. The most common method is a vent pipe system and fan, which pulls radon from beneath the house and vents it to the outside. This system, known as a soil suction radon reduction system, does not require major changes to your home.

Radon Levels in Hawaii

  • According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average indoor radon level in Hawaii is about 0.6 pCi/L, which is less than the national average of 1.3 pCi/L.
  • However, the EPA recommends taking action to reduce radon levels in homes that have a radon level at or above 4 pCi/L.
  • While the overall average radon level in Hawaii is low, there are areas in the state where radon levels are higher. These areas include the Big Island, Maui, and Oahu.

Conclusion

While the radon levels in Hawaii are generally lower than the national average, it is still important for homeowners to test their homes for radon. If high levels of radon are found, steps can be taken to reduce the radon levels and protect the health of the home’s occupants.

Additional Resources About Radon Levels In Hawaii

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