ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on radon, its origins and effects, the steps in a radon investigation, and the design and construction of a radon mitigation system. Radon can be tested using active devices or passive devices. Active radon testing devices, which can run on batteries or alternating current, continuously measure and record the amount of radon or its decay products in the air. Typical passive devices include charcoal canisters, alpha-track detectors, charcoal liquid scintillation devices, and electret ion chamber detectors. Radon testing should be biased to simulate worst-case occupancy conditions at the level being tested. Large buildings with multiple levels and multiple rooms on each level pose a challenge to the investigator, since it may be impractical or costly to perform a radon survey in every room suitable for occupancy. The easiest and cheapest way to mitigate a radon hazard in a building is to install a radon mitigation system inside the building during construction.
