by Margaret Henderson
The Vermont Department of Health Radon Program encourages testing schools for radon. Since 2005, approximately 14% of the schools that have done radon testing have had concentrations in excess of 4pCi/L, the USEPA recommended action level. Some of the schools have had as much as five times the action level. Variables unique to each school include the concentration of radon in soil and soil permeability, the type of construction of the building, and the heating and air-conditioning systems (type, operation and maintenance). Because of the impact of these variables, the department recommends testing all schools and offers free school testing.
The Radon Program provides information to school nurses and administrators, proving an explanation about radon health effects and data on potential radon exposures based on prior testing using results as of April 2016. Of the 73 schools tested, 13.6% (10 schools) exceeded the 4 pCi/L level. High concentrations of at least 20 pCi/L have been found. The department estimates, based on previous history, that more than 20 other schools may be expected to have elevated radon levels.
Mitigation systems have been installed in six schools and two more schools have reduced radon by working on sealing cracks and improving operation of the ventilation systems.
Information is provided in a letter to nurses and administrators at http://www.healthvermont.gov/sites/default/files/documents/pdf/ENV_HS_Radon_Letter_to_School_Nurse.pdf
For more information about radon in Vermont, contact:
http://www.healthvermont.gov/environment/school/radon-schools
Radon Program at 800-439-8550 email radon@vermont.gov
United States