Additional menu

Radon.org

Radon In Maryland

Average Radon Level In Maryland: 5.4 pCi/L

The EPA advises that any home or building in Maryland 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 Maryland: 5.4 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 Maryland

Understanding Radon in Maryland

Radon in Maryland is a significant concern due to the naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes and buildings from the soil. This invisible, odorless, and tasteless gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. The radon levels in Maryland vary greatly, with some areas having higher concentrations than others. It’s crucial for homeowners and residents to understand the risks and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

The Health Risks For Radon In Maryland

Exposure to high levels of radon in Maryland can lead to serious health issues, including:

  • Lung cancer, even in non-smokers
  • Respiratory issues such as chronic cough and difficulty breathing
  • Potential risk of other types of cancers

Radon Levels in Maryland

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer. It is produced from the decay of uranium in soil and rocks. In Maryland, radon levels can vary greatly depending on the location and the type of building. Here is some important information about radon levels in Maryland:

  • Statewide Radon Levels: The average indoor radon level in Maryland is 1.3 pCi/L, which is less than the national average of 1.3 pCi/L. However, this does not mean that all homes in Maryland have low radon levels. Some homes can have radon levels that are significantly higher than the average.
  • High-Risk Areas: Certain areas in Maryland are known to have higher radon levels. These include the counties of Allegany, Frederick, Garrett, and Washington. In these areas, the average radon level can be as high as 4 pCi/L or more, which is the level at which the EPA recommends taking action to reduce radon levels.
  • Radon Testing: The only way to know the radon level in a home is to test for it. In Maryland, radon testing is not required by law, but it is highly recommended, especially for homes in high-risk areas. Radon test kits are available for purchase online and in stores, and there are also professional radon testing services available.
  • Radon Mitigation: If a home in Maryland has a radon level of 4 pCi/L or more, the homeowner should take steps to reduce the radon level. This can be done through radon mitigation, which involves installing a system to vent radon gas out of the home. In Maryland, radon mitigation services are available from licensed professionals.

In conclusion, while the average radon level in Maryland is less than the national average, there are still areas in the state where radon levels can be high. Therefore, it is important for homeowners in Maryland to test their homes for radon and to take action to reduce radon levels if necessary.

Additional Resources About Radon Levels In Maryland

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

  • Maryland Department of the Environment: Radon – This page provides information about radon, its health risks, and how to test for it in your home.
  • EPA: Radon Zones in Maryland – This page from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides information about radon zones in Maryland and other states.
  • Montgomery County, Maryland: Radon – This page provides information about radon in Montgomery County, including testing and mitigation resources.
  • CDC: Radon in the Home – This page from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides information about the health risks of radon and how to reduce your exposure.
  • ATSDR: ToxFAQs for Radon – This page from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry provides answers to frequently asked questions about radon.