As the world progresses through modern technology, more and more environmental problems occur. Among the adverse effects that you can see nowadays is air pollution. Smokes from burning materials and factories are some of the outdoor pollutants. But have you ever heard of indoor air pollutants? Is radon one of them?
Radon: The Silent Indoor Air Pollutant
Probably you have heard the term radon so many times. But can you recall what it is? Why is it considered a dangerous gas? Does it cause poisoning to humans?
If you try to remember, radon is a colorless and odorless gas. You cannot tell if you are exposed to it because you cannot see it with the naked eye. This is why you need to conduct radon testing if you want to ensure a radon-resistant home. Through the process, you can tell if your home has high radon levels.
Radon can quickly enter through the cracks and openings in your home, particularly in the basements. But why? This is because the gas has a high density, no wonder it is often found in the basements where there are lots of shales and boulders in the soil. Radon is considered an indoor air pollutant and is regarded as a hazardous gas.
Radon is the result of the radioactive decay of radium in the soil. It can produce radioactive daughters such as lead and polonium as the material further decays. Together with other decay products, it can attach to the airborne particles, making alpha and beta radiation. This radiation is harmful since it can cause lung cancer.
Should You Install A Radon Mitigation System?
If you conduct radon testing and your home becomes positive to radon, what should you do? Should you immediately install a radon mitigation system?
Having a radon mitigation system is essential, especially for your home that has high radon levels. However, it would be best to ask a licensed radon contractor first. Why? This is because radon fluctuates. It can be high or low, depending on some factors. If you do short-term testing, the radon level can be high. But at some point, it can be low.
What should you do if radon fluctuates in your home? It would be best to conduct long-term radon testing because it can help you determine the radon levels in your home over a long period. This way, you can tell if the level is consistently high or not. If the level is high, that’s the time to consider a radon mitigation system.
Radon’s Health Effects
The problem with indoor air pollutants is they can cause damage to your lungs once you inhale them. As mentioned before, radon is a significant source of indoor air pollution. According to the World Health Organization, it has been causing tens of thousands of deaths annually in the United States and Europe. To avoid any health risks, radon mitigation is a must.
Radon is a very harmful gas and once your home has high levels of it, make sure to contact your state’s professional radon contractors. This way, you can plan for radon mitigation and use the best technique to reduce radon levels in your home.
