In Minnesota has number of schools tested for radon increased significantly over the last four years, having tested 6,500 schools in 2020 to more than 16,700 schools in 2023. Beginning in 2021, the Minnesota Department of Health determined that school testing must be conducted by licensed professionals. EPA recognized this as a “Successful approach for Reducing Radon Risk through testing and remediation of schools and childcare facilities.”
A July 2024 publication of the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), Radon Testing in Minnesota Schools, noted that “For most school children and staff, their school is the second largest contributor to their radon exposure. MDH analyzed school and professional reported data during the timeframe of 2018- 2022. We found that 39% of public schools (25% of districts) tested during the 5-year timeframe. We also found that 16% of the public schools that tested had at least one room at or above 4.0 pCi/L.” Reference https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/air/docs/radon/radontestguide.pdf.
The MDH advises that while Minnesota schools are not required to test for radon, testing is certainly encouraged. Public schools that choose to test must conduct the testing according to the state’s ‘Radon Testing Plan’ and report the results to MDH and at a board meeting. Testing and mitigation in schools must be conducted by licensed individuals, whether they are contracted professionals or school staff (licensing exemptions would not typically apply).
The MDH also provides a reporting form for test results at https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/air/docs/radon/radontestform.pdf
Source:
Overview of EPA’s State & Tribal Indoor Radon Grants Program: A Focus on Activities Conducted During 2023. https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2024-10/final-2023-annual-sirg-activities-report.508.pdf
United States