Iowa Requires Radon Testing in Schools
"In Iowa, the Gail Orcutt School Radon Safety Bill (HF 2412) was signed into law and took effect in July 2022. See https://hhs.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/idphfiles/HF2412_GovLetter.pdf It requires all public schools to test for radon by July 2027, and every 5 years thereafter. Schools must follow recognized national standards for radon testing. School districts are also required to mitigate buildings if testing shows elevated radon levels, and all new school construction is required to incorporate radon resistant construction techniques. The comprehensive law also requires that testing is completed by an Iowa Certified Measurement Specialist or by district staff that have completed an approved training course."
Overview of EPA’s State and Tribal Indoor Radon Grants Program: A Focus on Activities Conducted During 2022, published in February 2023, notes this as an accomplishment. (https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2023-02/2022%20Annual%20SIRG%20Activities%20Report.pdf)
Iowa Department of Health and Human Services https://hhs.iowa.gov/radon summarizes the requirements stating that the act requires:
• The board of directors of each public school district must establish a radon plan and schedule for testing.
• Each attendance center in a school district must be tested for radon at least once by July 1, 2027, and at least once every 5 years thereafter.
• Test results must be posted on the districts internet site in a timely manner.
• Testing must be done by an Iowa certified Radon Measurement Specialist or by school district staff that have completed an approved training program.
• Testing shall be based on recognized national standards that outline school radon testing practices.
• If the results of a short-term test are at or above four picocuries per liter, a second short-term test shall be conducted in the spaces with elevated results within sixty days of the first test.
• If testing indicates radon levels above 4 pCi/L the district shall employ an Iowa credentialed Radon Mitigation Specialist to develop a radon mitigation plan that may include further diagnostic testing, corrective measures, and active mitigation. Th mitigation plan must be completed within two years of the first test.
• All new school construction shall incorporate radon resistant construction techniques (RRNC).
For more information or questions about school testing requirements please visit the Iowa Department of Education - School Facilities - Radon in Schools website:
https://educateiowa.gov/pk-12/school-facilities/radon-schools
United States