by Margaret Henderson
The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services Radon Program focuses efforts on measurement and mitigation, providing information and listings of licensed services.
In Nebraska the potential for residents to be exposed to high radon levels is significant. One of every two radon test results in Nebraska shows elevated levels, above the 4 pCi/L recommended EPA action level. The map “Average Radon Concentrations by County in Nebraska” shows that the majority of Nebraska counties have high radon levels. http://dhhs.ne.gov/publichealth/Documents/RadonConcentrationsByCounty.pdf. Eight counties have test results averaging between 11-14 pCi/L. In seven counties, the highest radon levels were greater than 100 pCi/L.
http://dhhs.ne.gov/publichealth/Documents/RadonHighestResultByCounty.pdf Statewide the highest radon level was 282 pCi/L. Statewide, 59% of the homes tested exceeded 4 pCi/L.
With such potential for exposure to radon in homes, the Radon Program has provided detailed information to help residents reduce exposure. These include:
1. information on “Building A New Home To Minimize Radon and Moisture Vapor Entry.”
http://dhhs.ne.gov/publichealth/Pages/radon_ventsystems.aspx
2. information on “Mitigating A High Radon Level In An Existing Home.” http://dhhs.ne.gov/publichealth/Pages/radon_mitigating.aspx
Nebraska also requires licensure for those conducting radon measurements or installing mitigation systems. Lists of service providers are available through the Program’s website. http://dhhs.ne.gov/publichealth/Pages/radon_radonremoval.aspx
For more information, contact:
Doug Gillespie
Telephone 402-471-0548
DHHS.HealthHazardsIndoorAir@nebraska.gov
United States