Radon Brochure From The Minnesota Department of Health

Keeping your home safe from radon
index RADON is a colorless,

Facts about radon 2 odorless radioactive gas that seeps up from the earth.
When inhaled, these radioactive particles can damage
Pathways into your home 4
the cells that line the lung.
Air pressure and radon 6
How to perform a radon test 8 Long-term exposure to radon can lead to lung cancer.
In fact, over 20,000 lung deaths each year are from radon,
Understanding radon test results 10

making it a serious health concern for all Minnesotans.
Lowering radon in existing homes 12

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has created
Radon-resistant new construction 16

this guide to explain the risks of radon and why it is important
Real estate and radon 20 for every home in Minnesota to be tested.
Glossary of terms 24
In this guide, you will learn:
• how you are exposed to radon
• how simple it is to test for radon, and
• what you should do if you have a radon
problem, whether you live in an existing home,
plan to build a new one, or are considering
buying or selling a home.
Most of all, this guide is designed

to help protect your biggest
investment... your home.
And to keep your

greatest treasure,
your family’s
health... safe.
important facts about
radon
Where does radon gas come from?
The soil. Radon is produced from the natural decay of uranium
that is found in nearly all soils. Uranium breaks down to radium.
As radium disintegrates it turns into a radioactive gas...radon.
the making of
radon
As a gas, radon moves up through the soil and into the air you breathe.
How dangerous Where is your greatest

is radon? exposure to radon?
Radon is the number While radon is present everywhere,
one cause of lung and there is no known, safe level,
How does radon enter a home?

cancer in non-smokers your greatest exposure is where
Since radon is produced from soil, it is present nearly everywhere. Because soil
and the second leading it can concentrate– indoors.
is porous, radon gas is able to move up through the dirt and rocks and into the
cause of lung cancer And where you spend most
air we breathe. If allowed to accumulate, radon becomes a health concern.
(after tobacco) in of your time– at home.
smokers. Thankfully, Your home can be old or new,

Two components that affect how much radon will accumulate in a home are
this risk should be well-sealed or drafty, and
pathways and air pressure. These components will differ from home to home.
entirely preventable with or without a basement.
through awareness
and testing.
How serious a problem is radon in Minnesota?

High radon levels exist in every state in the US.
In Minnesota, one in three homes has radon
levels that pose a significant health risk, and nearly
80% of the counties are rated High Radon zones.
pathways air pressure
are routes the gas uses to enter between your home’s interior
ZONE 1: Some factors that further contribute to
>4pCi/L Minnesota’s high radon levels include: your home and found anywhere and the exterior soil is what helps to
ZONE 2: • Minnesota’s geology produces opening between
there is an draw radon gas into the home
>2 <4pCi/L an ongoing supply of radon. the home and the soil. via the pathways.
• Minnesota’s climate affects how our
homes are built and operate.
2 Radon MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH w w w.state.health.mn.us /radon w w w.state.health.mn.us /radon MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH Radon 3
foundations
radon’s Any home can have a radon
pathways
into your home

problem, no matter what
type of foundation it has.
If you have a basement...

A basement provides
a large surface area
in contact with
soil material.
Radon can enter
through cracks
in the concrete,
or through floor
K to-wall joints or
control joints. Since
many Minnesota homes use
their basements as living
space, exposure to radon
J can be further increased.
But radon can enter a home

regardless of whether or not
B there is a basement.
E
I Slab-On-Grade: Slabs
G
H built on grade can have many
C openings that allow radon to
D enter, just as in a basement.
K Crawl Space: Homes

A with crawl spaces can
F
E also have elevated radon
levels. The negative air
F Weeping (drain) tile, pressure vacuum can draw
if drained to an open sump radon gas from a crawl
A Cracks in concrete slabs space into the home.
Radon can G Mortar joints
B Spaces behind brick veneer walls that rest on
enter your home via a uncapped hollow-block foundations H Loose fitting pipe penetrations Manufactured Homes:
Unless these buildings are
number of entry points C Pores and cracks in concrete blocks I Open tops of block walls placed on supports without
or pathways... skirting around them,
D Floor-wall joints J Building materials as brick, concrete, rock
interior air pressure vacuums
E Exposed soil, as in a sump or crawl space K Well water (not commonly a major source can cause radon to enter
in Minnesota homes) manufactured homes, as well.
radon and your home’s
air pressure
What happens after

Minnesota homes commonly operate under a negative air radon gets into the home?
pressure, especially during the heating season. What this Radon levels are often highest at the
means is that the air pressure inside your home is typically lower
entry point–typically in the lower part
than the surrounding air and soil, and this creates a vacuum
of a building. As radon gas moves
that pulls soil gases, such as radon, into the home via the pathways.
upward, diffusion, natural air
(For more on Pathways, see page 4.) Even if the ground around the
movements and mechanical
house is frozen or soaked by rain, the gravel and disturbed ground

equipment (such as a forced-air
underneath the house remains warm and permeable, attracting ventilation system) distribute the
radon gas from the surrounding soil. radon through the home. Radon gas
becomes more diluted in the upper levels
Other factors also contribute to air pressure changes in a home, including: of the home because there is more
fresh air ventilation for it to mix with.
Stack Down Vacuum
EFFECT Wind EFFECT Greater dilution and less house
As warm Draft Combustion appliances vacuum effect occur when
air rises to EFFECT
like furnaces, hot water the house is more open to the
the upper portions Strong winds can
heaters and fireplaces, outdoors, as during the non-heating

of a home, it is create a vacuum on
as well as exhaust fans season. This generally results in lower
displaced by cooler, the downwind as they
and vents, can remove indoor radon levels in the summer
denser outside air. blow past a home.
a considerable amount
Some of that displaced compared to the winter.
of air from a home.
air comes from

When air is exhausted,
the soil. Understanding how radon moves
outside air enters the

home to replace it. through the home environment helps
Much of this replace- to explain why timing and location
ment air comes from are important factors to consider
the underlying soil. when conducting a radon test.
(For more on radon testing,
In general, whenever air enters a home from the underlying soil, see page 8.)
some radon will likely come with it.
how to perform a
radon test guidelines
radon test
It is important to follow the instructions that come with the radon test kit.
Before performing a test, keep these guidelines in mind:
Time of year to test: The amount of radon in homes is usually highest

all Minnesota homeowners
MDH recommends that during the heating season. Long-term tests should span both the heating
test their homes for radon. A radon test is the only and non-heating seasons.
way to find out how much radon is in your home and if you
and your family are at risk. Performing a radon test on your own Weather patterns: Weather patterns can influence how radon gets into
is easy, inexpensive and takes only a few minutes of your time. your home. Short-term tests should not be conducted during severe weather
or unusually high winds.
The results of a properly performed radon test will help you determine
if you need to take further action to protect yourself from the health risks of radon.
Test location: Test the lowest level of the home that is regularly used.
For example, if you spend more than 8 to 10 hours a week in the basement,
Can a neighbor’s What type of radon How much MDH recommends testing the basement.
test results be test kit should I use? will it cost?
an indication of There are two basic types of A radon test Disturbances: Place the kit at least 20 inches above the floor in a location
whether my home radon tests available to the public, kit should where it won’t be disturbed-- away from drafts, high heat, high humidity and
has a problem? short-term and long-term tests. cost between exterior walls. Test kits that are disturbed or moved during a test may provide
$5 and $25, inaccurate results.
A neighbor’s test
Short-term tests measure depending on
result is a poor
the type of kit. Timeliness of analysis: Once you’ve finished, reseal the package and send it to
predictor of your radon levels for 2 to 7 days, or
Make sure the the lab specified on the package. Radon test results may not be accurate if the test
radon risk use a continuous monitor for a
price includes kits are not sent to the laboratory as soon as possible after completing the test.
because each minimum of 48 hours, depending
laboratory
home can have on the device. While short-term analysis.
different indoor radon tests do not measure the annual
levels. Furthermore,
How often should I test for radon? Where can I get a
average level of radon, they do If you choose to
previous test results • MDH recommends every Minnesota home, radon test kit?
offer a quick and inexpensive way hire someone to
may not reflect even those built radon-resistant, be tested Radon test kits are sold
to “screen” for radon in a home. test your home,
current or future it will be more for radon. at some hardware or
radon levels if • You should retest your home every home supply stores.
Long-term tests determine expensive. Radon
2 – 5 years and save your results.
the home has measurement Your local health
the average concentration
been remodeled, professionals are • Be sure to test before and after you make any department may also
for a minimum of 90 days.
weatherized or often used when major structural renovations such as building offer test kits at reduced
had changes to Long-term tests are the best an addition or finishing a basement. Radon-
an unbiased, prices. For information on
its heating, air ways to estimate the average resistant techniques can be inexpensively
third party where to obtain low cost
conditioning or other amount of radon in the home included as part of the renovation, if needed.
is needed, such radon test kits, contact
ventilation systems during the year, particularly if a • You should also perform a radon test after
as in real estate
(such as exhaust year-long test is done to include buying a new heating system or adding the MDH Indoor Air Unit
transactions.
fans). both heating and cooling seasons. central air conditioning. at 651-201-4601.
(See page 20.)
understanding radon
test results
The table below provides recommendations What is the recommended action based on my results?
on the action to take based on the The Environmental Protection Agency and Minnesota Department of Health
type of radon test you used and the test results set the recommended action level for radon at 4.0 pCi/L.
you received. These recommendations take into
account Minnesota’s weather extremes, along with the amount Above 4 pCi/L Fix your house *
of radon typically found in this state, and therefore may differ
2 pCi/L to 4 pCi/L Consider fixing your house*
slightly from the EPA’s guidelines.
To apply the recommended action level correctly, the results
should be based on the annual average level of radon
TEST TYPE RESULT (PCI/L) RECOMMENDED ACTION

measured in a home. If the annual average level of radon
is above 4 pCi/L, EPA and MDH recommend that steps be
Initial taken to lower it. While it isn’t possible to reduce radon
Less than 2 Consider performing a long-term test.+

Short-term to zero, the best approach is to lower the radon level as
Test+ 2 to 10 Perform long-term test.+

much as possible. Any amount of radon, even at or below the
Greater than 10 Perform a second short-term test. recommended action level, carries some risk.
Contact MDH at 651-201-4601 before buying

second test kit.
Are radon How much radon is safe?
Second levels There is no safe level of radon. Your risk for lung cancer
Short-term Less than 8 Perform long-term test.+ regulated? increases with higher levels of radon gas and increased
Test+ 8 or greater Mitigation* strongly recommended if first test In Minnesota, exposure.
radon levels in
result was also 4 pCi/L or greater.
new construction The following table estimates your lifetime risk of lung
are regulated. cancer death due to long-term exposure to radon.
Long-term Less than 2 Retest if major changes made to the home. However, levels
Test+ in existing homes Radon Level Lung Cancer Risk Lung Cancer Risk
(See page 9 on how often to test) Annual Average for people who for people who
are not regulated. Never Smoked Smoke
2 to less than 4 Consider performing mitigation.*
It is up to the
4 or greater Mitigation strongly recommended.* homeowner or 20 pCi/L 36 out of 1,000 260 out of 1,000
home buyer to 10 pCi/L 18 out of 1,000 150 out of 1,000
decide what
* For information on radon mitigation, see page 12. 8 pCi/L 15 out of 1,000 120 out of 1,000
amount of radon
+ For information on short-term and long-term radon tests, see page 8. is an acceptable 4 pCi/L 7 out of 1,000 62 out of 1,000
These recommendations assume that the radon tests were conducted properly. risk for your 2 pCi/L 4 out of 1,000 32 out of 1,000
family.
Suction System Other methods to
lowering radon in There are four types of soil suction systems: Reduce radon levels
existing homes
sub-slab, drain tile, sub-membrane and block wall.
The active sub-slab suction

(also called the sub-slab
Other radon reduction
techniques may be considered
to reduce the radon gas levels
depressurization, or SSD)
Radon mitigation is any process or system is the most common
fan
that are circulating within the
home. Many of these methods
used to reduce radon concentrations and usually the most
are used only as temporary
in the breathing zones of occupied buildings. reliable system
measures, or in combination
The goal of a radon mitigation system is to reduce
because it draws
radon-filled air Sub-Slab with other measures, like the
the indoor radon levels to below the EPA action
level of 4 pCi/L. A quality radon reduction (mitigation) system is often
from beneath
the house and
Suction ventilation or suction system.
vents it outside. sump suction Sealing cracks and

able to reduce the annual average radon level to below 2 pCi/L. pipes penetrate openings in the foundation is a
Passive basic step in radon mitigation.
beneath slab
sub-slab suction Sealing will limit the flow of
There are Prevent the entry of radon is the same as radon, making other mitigation
several methods Houses are generally categorized by their foundation active sub- techniques more efficient.
design, basement, slab-on-grade or craw space. slab suction, This is a temporary measure
used to except not because normal settling of a
The foundation determines the radon reduction system
mitigate or that will work best to prevent gases from entering your home.
as effective. home opens new entry routes
It relies on sealant and reopens old ones.
reduce radon air currents
levels in your instead of a seal floor House pressurization uses
fan to draw & wall cracks a fan to blow air into the lower
home. radon level of the home, creating
Some up from enough pressure to prevent
Basement Slab-on-Grade Crawl Space below the radon from entering. To maintain
methods SUCTION SYSTEM SUCTION SYSTEM VENTILATION SYSTEM house. radon enough pressure, doors and
prevent Some homes can have more than one foundation design, If a home uses drain tiles to direct water away windows at the lowest level
requiring a combination of systems be used. must not be left open.
the entry from the foundation, suction on the drain
tiles can help reduce radon levels.
of radon, Ventilation System Heat recovery ventilator
while others Ventilation can sometimes lower indoor radon levels In the drain tile suction system, caps are (HRV) (also called an air-to
in crawl spaces by reducing the home’s suction on placed on homes with sump pumps. The pump air heat exchanger) is used to
reduce radon the soil and by diluting the radon beneath the house. continues to drain unwanted water. increase ventilation in all or
levels after Passive ventilation is achieved by opening or installing part of a home. The HRV
vents. Active ventilation uses a fan to blow air through the Block wall suction systems are used in introduces outdoor air by
entering crawl space. To be effective, ventilation is often used with homes with hollow block foundations by using using the heated or cooled
the home. sub-membrane depressurization, which covers the dirt a system similar to the sub-slab suction, exhausted air to warm or
of the crawl space floor with a plastic sheet. A pipe then where radon is removed from the wall cool the incoming air.
draws the radon air from under the sheet to the outside. by depressurization.
How do I know which What are some of the key questions 10 Step Guide to the
mitigation system is
right for me?
to ask a mitigation contractor?
Radon Mitigation Process
When discussing your needs with

Lowering high radon levels
requires technical knowledge
a mitigation contractor, here are 1
2
HOMEOWNER’S contacts HOMEOWNER
What does
it cost to
a few important questions to ask:
and special skills. The right radon test certified mitigators to request bids. install a
system will depend on a ✔ Will the contractor perform diagnostics reveals the home *MDH has a list of mitigation contractors: mitigation
number of factors, including has a radon www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/
to determine the suction point location system?
problem. indoorair/radon/mitigation.html
the design of your home. and correct pipe and fan sizes?
The cost
An experienced radon ✔ Who is responsible for obtaining depends on
mitigation professional is your permits, if required? 3 CONTRACTOR
a walk-through
does
of the home
4
HOMEOWNER
reviews key questions
how your
home was
best resource to assess and ✔ Will a contract be provided?
to identify problems (page 14) with each built and
advise you of your options.
✔ Who will do the licensed electrical work? then outlines the CONTRACTOR the extent
✔ Is there a warranty on materials or mitigation system requesting a proposal, of the radon
How do I find an the workmanship? If so, for how long? they recommend. bid and references.
problem.
experienced radon Do they warranty system performance?
mitigation professional? ✔ How will the system be evaluated? In general,
MDH has a list of contractors ✔ Will the contractor offer the homeowner
5
HOMEOWNER evaluates and
costs can
that specialize in radon compares contractor recommendations, bids
range from
training in the radon mitigation system and contracts, selecting the contractor and scheduling the work.
mitigation. This list is a good approximately

operations and/or troubleshooting?
place to start. Contractors $800 to
✔ Will the contractor guarantee that
on the MDH list have taken
a nationally-certified training radon levels will be brought to below the 6 7 CONTRACTOR
8
CONTRACTOR
$2,500, with
the average
course, passed the national Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) CONTRACTOR
seals required reduction
recommended action level may perform installs the
certification exam, and retain areas, system costing
of 4.0 pCi/L? diagnostic mitigation
their national certification e.g., large cracks, system, approximately
through continuing education.
testing to ensure
✔ What will the contractor do if post crawl spaces, i.e., suction pit $1,500.
proper size
mitigation radon levels are not below sumps, etc. or ventillation,
and installation
The radon contractor listing the EPA’s recommended action level? pipe routing, etc.
methods
can be found on our website at: Electrical hook-up
✔ Can the contractor provide a list are applied.
www.health.state.mn.us/ completed
radon of references? by licensed
electrician,
✔ Is the quoted price guaranteed? not a licensed
Another benefit of selecting
a listed contractor is that
9
CONTRACTOR
contractor
MDH can provide technical

consultations to ensure that a
provides full
explanation
10
HOMEOWNER or CONTRACTOR
successful mitigation is done. of system’s
Test the home to ensure the
For further assistance, call the operation to

system is reducing radon
Indoor Air Unit at: 651-201-4601. HOMEOWNER to the desired level.
radon-resistant new
construction
If you plan to build a new home, plan to build it radon-resistant.

features of radon-resistant construction
It is much safer for your family and far more cost-effective to prevent radon
1 Electrical junction box:
from becoming a problem. Radon-resistant construction combines common An electrical junction box is roughed in the
building techniques and materials to seal entry points and route the passive
4 attic near the vent pipe. This power supply
gases outdoors, helping to prevent radon from entering the home. radon system
1 will be ready to use if the radon control
system needs to be “activated” in the future.
4 3 2 Aggregate: Four inches of clean

What are the benefits of building Are there different aggregate is spread under all areas within the
types of systems? 1
a radon-resistant home? home’s walls that will be covered by concrete
It reduces your risk of lung cancer. Yes, passive or active systems. 3 slabs. Soil-gas collection mats or drainage
mats can also be used.
People who live in a radon-resistant home will A passive system is a
breathe in less radon. The less radon you are minimal approach to radon 7 Soil-gas
exposed to, the lower your risk of lung cancer. reduction that relies on the 5 crawl space
retarder:
convective flow of air upward
7
System components are incorporated into in a vent pipe to exhaust the 6 basement To help keep
water/moisture
the building design. When radon-resistant radon gas. The State Building in concrete
5 7
features are part of the design, they can easily Code only requires a “passive” 3 Vent pipe: 2
so that it fully
be hidden from view. This may not be possible system be installed. However, The vent pipe runs cures with
if a radon mitigation system has to be added at a fan may need to be added at vertically through 6 minimum
a later date if radon levels are the roof, directing cracking, 6 mil
a later date, after the house is finished. 4 Roof 6 Vent pipe “T”:
still high. the soil gases to thick polyethylene
flashing: Flashing A “T” fitting made
the outdoors. sheeting, over
It may help control basement moisture. An active system offers The vent pipe must be installed of 3 to 4 inch
diameter PVC lapped 12 inches
One common source of basement moisture, is a 3 to 4 inch around the vent
maximum radon reduction piping is inserted at the seams,
the entry of water vapor through the slab, diameter PVC pipe pipe where it exits
through the use of a fan that into the aggregate and fitted closely
may also be reduced by radon-resistant that is connected to the roof to prevent
continuously pulls radon-laden leakage. under the basement around all
techniques. Therefore, a radon-resistant air from the soil and exhausts the “T” in the aggre
slab, or under penetrations,
home may have less basement moisture than gate. If the home
it outdoors. The active system
has a sump pit or
5 Sealing: a crawl space’s is placed over
if it had been built without these features. can make a big difference All potential soil vapor barrier. The the aggregate.
drain-tile system,
in reducing radon exposure. gas entry points “T” pipe allows soil
the vent pipe can
It may add value when you sell. Minnesota contractors are are sealed with gases to enter with In crawl spaces,
be inserted directly
Potential buyers should be reassured when required to install an active caulking or the sheeting is
into the sump pit little resistance,
system in order to receive expanding foam. sealed to the
a home is built radon-resistant. Informed or connected to the and connects
the Gold Standard designation. Sump baskets must foundation walls
shoppers will view this as a positive feature in drain-tile loop. to the main
(See page 19.) have a sealed cover. and interior piers.
the Minnesota housing market. vent pipe.
What if I were to put in a Is there a way
radon-resistant unit at a later time? to test the soil
First, you risk your family’s health by waiting. In terms before building?
of dollars, not only is it more expensive to fix a radon Testing the soil prior GOLD STANDARD
problem after a home to building cannot
is built, the cost to operate RADON RESISTANT BUILDER
predict what the radon M I NNE S OTA D E PA R TM E NT O F HEALT H DESIGN AT IO N
a mitigation system put FIXING A
RADON BUILDING levels will be once the
PROBLEM RADON
in at a later date averages SAFE
house is completed.
nearly four times the annual What does the MDH Gold Standard
The impact that the
cost when compared to designation mean?
site preparation will
a system installed at the Only Minnesota builders that have demonstrated
have on introducing
time of construction. radon pathways the knowledge and experience to build a healthy,
in the home, and the radon-safe home at the maximum level can earn
Should I test for radon after MDH’s Gold Standard designation. Contractors with
extent or affect air
my new home is finished? the Gold Standard rating is a homeowner’s assurance that the builder
pressure will have
Yes. MDH recommends every Minnesota home, even those in the finished home, is qualified to install an active radon-resistant system.
built radon-resistant, be tested for radon. Repeat testing are what governs
every 2-5 years, or after any remodeling or updates are radon levels and What does it cost to build What does it cost to operate
made to the home’s heating or cooling systems. your exposure. a Gold Standard home? a Gold Standard home?
The cost is minimal. More importantly, On the average, a radon reduction
What should I do if the radon level in my new home is high? it costs much less to install a radon system costs slightly more than
the radon fan is If unacceptable radon levels are present, and the home has a reduction system during construction $12 per year to operate – just a
placed away from passive radon system in place, it can be upgraded to an of a new home than it will cost to fix a fraction of what it costs to run a home
the lifting area active system by adding and activating an in-line radon fan. radon problem found at a later date. computer, at more than $78 annually.
Typically, a monitor device is also installed with an active system. $ 2,500- -$ 2,500
$ 100- -$ 100
$ 2,000- -$ 2,000
$ 80- -$ 80
$ 1,500- -$ 1,500
In-line Radon Fan $ 1,000-
$ 500-
-$ 1,000 $
$
60-
40-
-$
-$
60
40
-$ 500
The fan is wired into the electrical junction $ 250- -$ 250 $ 20- -$ 20
box that was roughed in. This pulls radon

and other soil gases from beneath
the home and exhausts Average cost Average cost Average yearly cost Average yearly cost
them to the outdoors. to build to fix to operate a to run
u-tube radon resistant: an existing home: radon resistant fan:

a computer:
manometer $100 - 200 $800 - $2,500 $12.24 $78.90
Monitor Device
A system failure warning device
should also be installed to alert you if the

How do I find a Gold Standard builder?
system malfunctions. The most common
The Minnesota Department of Health has a list of contractors that have earned the
warning device is a u-tube. A u-tube visually
Gold Standard designation for radon-resistant building. To verify your builder has
indicates whether or not the fan is running.
met MDH’s Gold Standard for radon, check the builders list at the Minnesota
Department of Health site: www.health.state.mn.us/GoldStandard
recommendations to Buyers
real estate & radon If you are buying a home, ask if the home has any radon-resistant construction
buying/selling
features and if the home has been tested. Prospective buyers should keep in mind
that it is inexpensive and easy to measure radon, and radon levels can be lowered
at a fairly reasonable cost.
In Minnesota, buyers and

sellers in a real estate
transaction are free to
negotiate and respond If the home has been tested, If the home has not been tested,
the buyer must decide if the results or if past testing is not satisfactory,
as they choose. of past tests are acceptable. the buyer should decide if they
In making this decision, consider: wish to request radon testing.
If such a request is made, it is best
Role of the real estate professional Duration of test to bring it up as early as possible.
Ultimately, it is Long-term tests should span both
While real estate professionals address heating and non-heating seasons.
up to the buyer If a buyer asks for radon testing
many aspects of buying and selling homes, prior to a home purchase,
their licensing prohibits them from Timing of test
to decide what is an Short-term tests performed during MDH recommends specifying the
offering technical advice regarding conditions. Some points are noted
the heating season are more likely
acceptable level of radon and health risks, unless
to overestimate the year-round below, and may be included in the
qualified to do so. Instead, real average. Short-term tests performed sales contract:
radon risk estate professionals should advise during the non-heating season are • Who will perform the test.
in the home. their clients to consult with local more likely to underestimate the • Type of test: short-term, long-term
health authorities who work on year-round average. and/or continuous monitor.
radon issues. Or, have the client
Area of home that was tested • Area of the home to be tested.
contact the MDH Indoor Air Unit Determine if the location tested
at: 651-201-4601. reflects your anticipated use of • When the test will be done.
Relocation companies the home. • How results will be shared
Sellers and buyers who choose to work Who performed the test between parties.
with a relocation firm should recognize Although not a requirement • Who will pay for testing.
that their options in Minnesota, using a radon
• How the results will be used.
regarding radon measurement professional certified
by either NEHA or NRSB is • At what radon level will mitigation
testing and
recommended if you hire be required and who will pay for it.
mitigation may a third-party to do the testing.
be restricted by Finally, even if the home was built
Level of radon found radon-resistant, it should still be
the terms of their
Are you comfortable with the level tested for radon after occupancy.
agreement with of radon listed on the test results?
the company.
recommendations to Sellers What if there is not enough time to peform a long-term radon test?
A closing date may place practical constraints on performing a long-term test.
As a seller, consider the benefits of If time is a factor, there are three approved short-term test methods.
testing your house well before you put
it on the market, as opposed to waiting
until you are in the middle of the sale.
If you find a problem that should
be fixed, you will have time to get it
corrected. You also may get a better
price for the home because properly Continuous Simultaneous Sequential
conducted radon tests can be used as Radon Monitor Short-term Testing Short-Term Testing
a positive selling feature of the home. (CRM)
Fastest Second fastest Slowest
Most accurate Least accurate More accurate
Who should perform the test? than “Simultaneous”
Radon measurement professionals
may be used when an unbiased third- Test is completed by Two short-term test One short-term test
party is desired. If a professional is a certified contractor kits are used at the is performed for a
hired, MDH recommends selecting with a calibrated same time, placed 6-12 minimum of 48 hours.
a professional who is certified by CRM for a minimum inches apart, for a
the National Environmental Health of 48 hours.

minimum of 48 hours. Test kit is sent to
Association (NEHA) or by the National lab for analysis.
Radon Safety Board (NRSB). A list of
certified measurement professionals Test report is Test kits are Another
is available on the MDH web site at: analyzed to sent to the lab short-term kit is
www.health.state.mn.us/radon ensure that it is for analysis. used in the same
a valid test.
place as the first,
If you plan to perform the test The two test started right after
yourself, two basic types of radon results are averaged the first test is
tests are available to the public: to get the radon level. taken down.
Test is performed
Short-term tests offer for a minimum of
a quick and inexpensive way 48 hours.
to “screen” for radon.
Test kit is sent to
Long-term tests provide results that the lab for analysis.
more accurately reflect the
average amount of radon in the The two test
home during the year. (For more results are averaged
on radon testing see page 8.) to get the radon level.
guide to radon terms
glossary
abbreviations terms
Gold Standard
designation given only to
EPA active system Minnesota contractors
Environmental process to reduce radon that meet the highest
Protection Agency gas that uses a radon requirement levels for
www.epa.com fan to exhaust the gas radon-resistant, new
credits
from a building construction
radioactive stack effect This booklet provides information from the
MDH
Minnesota
aggregate long-term tests containing radioactive the movement of air Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) on
mineral materials such a more prolonged test substances which can into and out of buildings,
Department of Health radon and how to protect your family’s health.
as sand or stone used to determine the be dangerous driven by buoyancy,
www.health.state.
level of radon that is that helps drive natural The U.S. Surgeon General, the U.S. Environmental
mn.us
alpha-track detectors recommended for more radium ventilation
a passive, long-term a radioactive metal of Protection Agency (EPA) and MDH recommend that
detailed and accurate
radon test device investigations of radon the alkaline earth series sump pit every Minnesota home be tested for radon.
NEHA
levels. Tests last 3 a hole typically located
National Environmental basement radon
months to a year. in a basement that
Health a building story which is
(pronounced RAY-don) collects water, wicking
Association wholly or less than half
mitigation colorless, odorless, it away from rest of the
neha-nrpp.org below ground
a system that radioactive element in basement
effectively removes the noble gas groups
NRSB charcoal canisters
National Radon Safety a passive, short-term radon gas from a building
radon-resistant
sump pump Indoor Air Unit
Board radon test device a pump designed to
mitigation building techniques used periodically remove 625 Robert Street N.
nrsb.org
to prevent radon from
charcoal liquid professional
entering a home
liquid from the sump pit P.O. Box 64975
pCi/L scintillation device a qualified service to ensure that it does
professional hired to test not overflow St. Paul, MN 55164-0975
picocuries per liter a passive short-term
of air radon test device or remove radon from roof flashing
a building a piece of sheet metal
(SSD) continuous monitor placed over joints in roof
uranium
a chemically-reactive
800-798-9050 or 651-201-4601
one device or method negative pressure
sub-slab
used to perform a short-
and wall construction metal in the actinide www.health.state.mn.us/radon
depressurization a situation in which an to prevent water from series
term radon test enclosed area has lower seeping into the house
air pressure than the For more on MDH Gold Standard, visit:
convective air flow area around it short-term test vent pipe
air movement going a fast test used to a pipe used to direct www.health.state.mn.us/GoldStandard
from warm to cold picocurie per liter determine the level gas out of the home,
(pCi/L) of radon that is not allowing it to escape
crawl space a unit that measures considered as accurate outside
a shallow area between levels of radon/ as a long- term method
the soil and the first radioactive gas
floor of a house vent pipe “T” Mold & Moisture
passive system slab-on-grade PVC piping form that

process used to reduce concrete slab foundation allows gases from the Carbon Monoxide
drain tile that leaves no space

specialized pipe system radon gas that depends soil to enter with little Radon
on natural air current between the ground and resistance

used to pull water away the structure
from the footings and pathways Volatile Organic Compounds
foundation of a structure soil-gas retarder Lead
perforated pipe
a pipe laying polyethylene sheeting
electret ion chamber that is the primary soil Asbestos
detectors horizontally under a

crawl space’s vapor gas barrier in a crawl
a passive, short-term
radon test device barrier, perforated for space, also serves For more on MDH’s healthy home programs that cover
soil gases to enter and to bridge any cracks
that may form after issues such as lead, carbon monoxide, mold, asbestos and
connects to the vent
pipe “T” a basement slab has more: www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/homes/index.html
cured
GOLD STANDARD
More information on how to find a MDH Gold Standard Builder
can be found on our website at:
www.health.state.mn.us/radon
Indoor Air Unit
625 Robert Street N., P.O. Box 64975
St. Paul, MN 55164-0975
651-201-4601
800-798-9050
02/2010 IC# 141-2943

Radon Brochure From The Minnesota Department of Health

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Radon Brochure From The Minnesota Department of Health

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Keeping your home safe from radon

index RADON is a colorless,

Understanding radon test results 10

Lowering radon in existing homes 12

Radon-resistant new construction 16

Real estate and radon 20 for every home in Minnesota to be tested.

Most of all, this guide is designed

And to keep your

The soil. Radon is produced from the natural decay of uranium

that is found in nearly all soils. Uranium breaks down to radium.

As radium disintegrates it turns into a radioactive gas...radon.

How dangerous Where is your greatest

Radon is the number While radon is present everywhere,

one cause of lung and there is no known, safe level,

How does radon enter a home?

smokers. Thankfully, Your home can be old or new,

How serious a problem is radon in Minnesota?

radon’s Any home can have a radon

into your home

If you have a basement...

But radon can enter a home

K Crawl Space: Homes

What happens after

house is frozen or soaked by rain, the gravel and disturbed ground

the upper portions Strong winds can

heaters and ﬁreplaces, outdoors, as during the non-heating

air comes from

the soil. Understanding how radon moves

outside air enters the

Time of year to test: The amount of radon in homes is usually highest

should be based on the annual average level of radon

TEST TYPE RESULT (PCI/L) RECOMMENDED ACTION

is above 4 pCi/L, EPA and MDH recommend that steps be

Initial taken to lower it. While it isn’t possible to reduce radon

Less than 2 Consider performing a long-term test.+

Test+ 2 to 10 Perform long-term test.+

Contact MDH at 651-201-4601 before buying

Test+ 8 or greater Mitigation* strongly recommended if ﬁrst test In Minnesota, exposure.

are regulated. cancer death due to long-term exposure to radon.

The active sub-slab suction

vents it outside. sump suction Sealing cracks and

When discussing your needs with

mitigation. This list is a good approximately

MDH can provide technical

For further assistance, call the operation to

Indoor Air Unit at: 651-201-4601. HOMEOWNER to the desired level.

If you plan to build a new home, plan to build it radon-resistant.

4 3 2 Aggregate: Four inches of clean

box that was roughed in. This pulls radon

u-tube radon resistant: an existing home: radon resistant fan:

should also be installed to alert you if the

In Minnesota, buyers and

the National Environmental Health of 48 hours.

passive system slab-on-grade PVC piping form that

drain tile that leaves no space

on natural air current between the ground and resistance

foundation of a structure soil-gas retarder Lead

detectors horizontally under a

Indoor Air Unit

625 Robert Street N., P.O. Box 64975

St. Paul, MN 55164-0975

02/2010 IC# 141-2943