Benchmark Environmental Engineering offers radon testing to the San Jose and San Francisco areas. According to the United States Surgeon General, it is the second leading cause of lung cancer deaths. This silent killer often exists undetected in homes and schools and should be considered a harmful threat. Testing is not only necessary; it could save lives.
What Is Radon?
Radon is a naturally-occurring gas that is created when uranium breaks down in soil, rock, or groundwater. Pressure and movement in the earth can cause it to come to the surface and expel into the atmosphere.
How Does Radon Get Into Buildings?
While it can exist in any structure, the presence of radon is of particular concern in homes and schools, because these are the two places where most people spend the majority of their time. The EPA estimates that one in 15 homes have elevated levels..
- Groundwater Supply
- Crawlspaces
- Wall Cavities
- Building Cracks
- Gaps In Suspended Floors
- Construction Joints
- Openings Around Sump Pumps
- Openings Around Drains Pipes & Wires
What Are The Health Risks Of Radon?
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), extended exposure to radon has been linked to lung cancer. It is estimated that tens of thousands of people die each year from radon-related lung cancer. Studies show that children are more sensitive to this health hazard than adults.
Radon Testing – How It Works
Radon is odorless, colorless, and tasteless; the only way to detect it is through professional testing. There are two types of radon testing: short-term air sampling and long-term air sampling.
- Short-Term Testing: involves the use of devices that are placed in the lowest habitable areas of the building. These devices take readings for 48 – 88 hours.
- Long-Term Air Sampling: uses a device that collects readings for 90 days. We use long-term sampling because it is a more reliable testing method. Levels can fluctuate daily, and by using long-term testing devices, we can get a more accurate average reading.
What Happens After A Radon Test?
Once we complete our inspection and testing, we will prepare a report outlining our findings. We will recommend a plan for mitigation that involves a radon reduction system. After a reduction system has been employed for the recommended period of time, we will retest the building. When the tests show the presence of radon has returned to a safe level, we will issue an air quality clearance.
Testing New Homes & Homes For Sale
New homes are constructed with features that are designed to prevent the entrance of radon into the house. However, the EPA recommends that new homes should still be tested because sometimes those features fail. Similarly, as it has become more of a public health concern, home buyers are requesting testing by certified environmental professionals before completing the sale.
We can provide you with the tests and air quality reports you need to certify the safety of your home.
Stay Safe. Schedule Radon Testing.
Call the certified professionals at Benchmark Environmental Engineering for radon testing in San Jose if you suspect your home, apartment building, or school may be affected. Your safety and the safety of your family, tenants, and students are our primary concerns. Our testing, reporting, and remediation solutions will give you the peace of mind you deserve.