Average Radon Level In Ohio: 7.8 pCi/L
The EPA advises that any home or building in Ohio 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 Ohio: 7.8 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 Ohio
Radon in Ohio is a significant environmental health concern that often goes unnoticed due to its colorless and odorless nature. This naturally occurring radioactive gas is present in nearly all soils and can enter homes and buildings through cracks and openings. The radon levels in Ohio vary greatly, with some areas having higher concentrations than others. It’s crucial for Ohio residents to be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
The Health Risks For Radon In Ohio
Exposure to high levels of radon in Ohio 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 can lead to chronic respiratory conditions.
- Child health risks: Children are more susceptible to the harmful effects of radon due to their faster breathing rates and developing lungs.
Radon Levels in Ohio
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer. It is produced from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. In Ohio, radon levels can vary greatly from one home to another, even in the same neighborhood. The only way to know your home’s radon level is to test.
Ohio Radon Levels
According to the Ohio Department of Health, approximately half of the homes in Ohio have radon levels above the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) action level of 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter of air).
- Ohio’s average indoor radon level is 7.9 pCi/L, which is almost double the national average.
- Some counties in Ohio have average radon levels as high as 16 pCi/L.
- Ohio ranks 8th in the nation for the highest potential risk of radon exposure.
Testing for Radon in Ohio
Testing is the only way to know if your home has elevated radon levels. Ohio Department of Health recommends that all homes be tested for radon, regardless of geographic location or foundation type.
- Short-term tests are available and take between 2-90 days.
- Long-term tests give a better understanding of average radon levels and take more than 90 days.
Radon Mitigation in Ohio
If your home tests high for radon, there are ways to reduce the radon level. The Ohio Department of Health licenses radon mitigation specialists who can install systems to reduce radon levels in your home.
- These systems can reduce radon levels by up to 99%.
- Costs for radon mitigation systems can vary, but the average cost is around $1,200.
Conclusion
Radon is a serious health risk in Ohio, but with testing and mitigation, you can protect your family. The Ohio Department of Health encourages all Ohio residents to test their homes for radon and to take action if high levels are found.
Additional Resources About Radon Levels In Ohio
Here are some resources for reading about radon levels in Ohio:
- Ohio Department of Health – Radon Education and Licensing Program
- EPA Map of Radon Zones and Supplemental Information
- Ohio Department of Health – Radon Data
- American Lung Association – Radon
- A Citizen’s Guide to Radon (PDF)