By Margaret Henderson
Data indicate that one in four houses in Kansas may have elevated levels of radon concentrations in the indoor air. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) reports on its website that 5.4pCi/L is the average observed residential radon test result in Kansas and the maximum reported radon value in Kansas is 1121.6 pCi/L. Both the average and the maximum exceed the EPA recommended action level of 4pCi/L.
To provide the public with information about possible radon concentrations in their counties, the on-line Kansas Environmental Public Health Tracking portal has included radon data.
The user may select results, from:
- Average radon level;
- Maximum radon level;
- Total number of radon measurements; and
- Total number of radon measurements greater than or equal to 4 pCi/L.
Data can be selected by geographic areas or single, multiple or all counties and for periods including years 2001 through 2012. By hitting “Get Results,” the viewer can select to have the display given in tables, charts or maps. Following the display of results, the viewer is given information about why radon is a concern, how to test for radon and how to reduce risks.
To visit the portal and experiment with the data tool, go to http://keap.kdhe.state.ks.us/EPHT/portal/PPortal/ContentData.aspx
United States