Average Radon Level In Nebraska: 5.2 pCi/L
The EPA advises that any home or building in Nebraska 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 Nebraska: 5.2 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 Nebraska
Radon in Nebraska is a significant health concern due to the state’s high radon levels. This naturally occurring radioactive gas is invisible, odorless, and tasteless, making it difficult to detect without proper testing. The radon levels in Nebraska are among the highest in the United States, with an average indoor radon concentration that significantly exceeds the EPA’s action level. This makes it crucial for homeowners and residents to understand the risks and take necessary precautions.
The Health Risks For Radon In Nebraska
Exposure to high levels of radon can lead to serious health issues. In Nebraska, the risks are particularly high due to the state’s elevated radon levels. Some of the potential health risks include:
- Long-term exposure to radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers.
- Radon can accumulate in homes and buildings, leading to prolonged exposure.
- Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of radon.
Radon Levels in Nebraska
Nebraska is known for its high radon levels, with the state’s average radon level being significantly higher than the national average. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it difficult to detect without proper testing.
Nebraska’s Average Radon Levels
- The average radon level in Nebraska homes is 6.0 pCi/L, which is 1.5 times higher than the national average of 4.0 pCi/L.
- Every county in Nebraska is in Zone 1, the EPA’s highest potential radon zone.
- Approximately 63% of homes in Nebraska have radon levels above the EPA’s action level of 4.0 pCi/L.
Health Risks of High Radon Levels
Long-term exposure to high radon levels can lead to lung cancer. In fact, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, after smoking. The risk is even higher for smokers who are also exposed to high radon levels.
Testing for Radon in Nebraska
Given the high radon levels in Nebraska, it is recommended that all homeowners test their homes for radon. Testing is the only way to know if your home has high radon levels. There are various types of radon test kits available, including short-term and long-term tests.
Radon Mitigation in Nebraska
If your home tests high for radon, there are several radon mitigation techniques available. These include soil suction radon reduction systems, sealing, house or room pressurization, and heat recovery ventilation.
Nebraska Radon Resistant New Construction (RRNC)
Nebraska has a Radon Resistant New Construction (RRNC) program that encourages builders to include radon-resistant features in new homes. This can significantly reduce the radon levels in new homes and make future radon mitigation less likely to be needed.
Additional Resources About Radon Levels In Nebraska
Here are some resources for reading about radon levels in Nebraska:
