ACP

Gustavo,

Examine the world radon risk map that is based on the Report of the UN Scientific Committee 2000:

http://www.fixradon.com/maps/pages/D_01_world_radon_by_country.htm

If the project is in a country with a high risk based on the map, a passive ventilation system must be installed and the prerequisite is satisfied.

For projects not identified by the map as being in a country with high risk or for a project located in a country not on the map at all, choose one of the following options:

1.  Assume the project is in a high-risk radon area and install a passive ventilation system. This option is highly encouraged because installing a radon system after construction completion can be difficult.

2.  Do not install a passive ventilation system and follow the following steps:

     a.  Test for radon at the completion of the project using either a long-term or short-term test.

          i.  Long-term test (30+ day test): Conduct a single long-term test. If the result is less than  4 pCi/L (150 Bq/m³), no remediation is needed and the prerequisite is satisfied. If the result is 4 pCi/L (150 Bq/m³) or greater, install an active radon mitigation system. Once the active mitigation system is installed, undergo another test (short-term or long-term) to confirm that the mitigation system is operating as needed. OR;

          ii.  Short-term test (<30 day test): Conduct a short-term test. If the result is 4 pCi/L (150 Bq/m³) or less, no re-test or remediation is needed and the prerequisite is satisfied. If the result exceeds 4 pCi/L (150 Bq/m³), conduct remediation OR conduct a second short-term test. If the average of the two tests is 4 pCi/L (150 Bq/m³) or less, no re-test or remediation is needed and the prerequisite is satisfied. If the average of the two tests exceeds 4 pCi/L (150 Bq/m³), install an active radon mitigation system. Once the active mitigation system is installed, undergo another test (short-term or long-term) to confirm that the mitigation system is operating as needed.

     b.  Further guidance: 

          i.  Follow the instructions that come with the test kit.

          ii.  When completing a short-term test, close windows and outside doors and keep them closed as much as possible during the test. Heating and air conditioning system fans that re-circulate air may be operated. 

          iii.  Do not operate fans or other machines which bring in air from outside. Fans that are part of a radon-reduction system or small exhaust fans operating only for short periods of time may run during the test. 

          iv.  When completing a short-term test lasting just 2 or 3 days, be sure to close windows and outside doors at least 12 hours before beginning the test.

          v.  Do not conduct short-term tests of 2-3 days during storms or periods of unusually high winds.

          vi.  Place the test kit in the lowest lived-in level of the home (e.g. basement or first floor). It should be put in a room that is used regularly but not the kitchen or bathroom.

          vii.  Place the kit at least 20 inches above the floor where it won’t be disturbed—away from drafts, high heat, high humidity, and exterior walls. Leave the kit in place for as long as the package says. 

3.  Cities that have been proven to have an average radon concentration of 4 pCi/L (150 Bq/m³) or less through testing in accordance with the Guide for Radon Measurements in Residential Dwellings (with a minimum of 50 tests) are considered equivalent to EPA Radon Zone 2, and therefore are exempted from the radon requirements of this prerequisite. Projects may consult with local government agencies or universities to determine whether testing has been completed in accordance with these guidelines.

Carissa

Hello, if the project is not located in radon zone - can it get exemption from this pre-requisite?

Hello, have you been able to answer this question? Our project is not located in radon zone.