Radon is a radioactive, odorless, and tasteless gas that is formed during natural decay of uranium and radium in the subsurface. Exposure to elevated levels of radon can increase the chances of serious health problems. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer behind smoking and an estimated 14,000 people die of radon related lung cancer each year.
Exposure to elevated levels of radon typically occurs indoors. The amount of radon in a building is dependent upon the local geology, pathways into the building, and the ventilation rate of the building. Radon can enter a building or home through several paths including foundation cracks, utility penetrations, or floor drains.
If you suspect elevated levels of radon exist in your building or if you live in an area known to have high levels of radon, a radon evaluation can be completed by OCW Environmental. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends installation of a system to reduce radon gas in your home if the level of radon gas is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher.
At OCW Environmental, our certified radon experts will provide a free estimate for the installation of a radon mitigation system specifically designed based on the site-specific conditions in your building. Our engineers will design a system that may include sub-slab, crawl space, or sump venting with multiple suction points connected to one discharge location. Our design features may include unobtrusive pipe runs through wall cavities or closets and roof mounted discharge points to reduce visibility of the system while still allowing for proper maintenance access.
