EPA has recognized radon programs in Texas, New Jersey and West Virginia as having a “Successful approach for reducing radon risk through testing and remediation of schools and childcare facilities.”
Tech University, which operates the state’s radon program, partnered with the Texas Department of State Health Services to promote their free radon testing program as part of the Choose Safe Places program, which targets low-income Texas daycares. With this partnership in place, the state expects to see an increase in radon testing rates for daycares in the next year. The Texas Choose Safe Places Program (TXCSP) helps protect children from exposures to harmful substances where they learn, grow and play. The Program notes that harmful substances can also occur naturally in the environment, like radon or asbestos.
EPA also noted the success of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Radon Program. In New Jersey, more than 250 childcare centers and 33 schools were tested during this reporting cycle (during 2023). One mitigation system was installed at a daycare center and three mitigation systems were installed in school buildings.
In West Virginia, 74 total schools and daycares tested for radon. After high radon readings in three schools, the schools adjusted HVAC systems to reduce radon levels below the EPA’s recommended action level. The Radon Program is part of the West Virginia Department of Health.
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