Radon in the Workplace
A Guide to Ensuring Safety in Commercial Buildings
Radon exposure in workplaces is a hidden health risk. This guide explains how to test, mitigate, and maintain radon-safe commercial buildings to protect employees and businesses alike.
Introduction
Did you know radon gas is a leading cause of lung cancer after smoking? This invisible, odorless gas is not just a household problem—it can also seep into commercial buildings, putting employees and customers at risk. Ensuring radon safety in the workplace isn’t just about compliance; it’s about protecting lives.
In this post, we’ll uncover the dangers of radon in commercial spaces, explore testing and mitigation techniques, and share actionable steps to maintain a safe environment.
Radon 101: What Is It and Why Should You Care?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium in soil, rock, and water breaks down. While it dissipates harmlessly in outdoor air, radon can accumulate to dangerous levels indoors—especially in poorly ventilated spaces like basements, underground garages, and lower floors of commercial buildings.
Why Does Radon Matter in the Workplace?
Long-term exposure to radon can lead to lung cancer, with the EPA estimating it causes over 21,000 deaths annually in the U.S. For commercial building owners, ignoring radon risks could lead to health problems for employees, legal liabilities, and even insurance complications.
Common Sources of Radon in Commercial Buildings
- Cracks in foundations or walls
- Gaps around service pipes or utility lines
- Construction joints
- Sump pumps or crawl spaces
- Building materials containing trace amounts of uranium
Recognizing Radon Risks in Commercial Spaces
Radon gas seeps up from the ground and enters buildings through cracks, openings, or porous materials. Factors like soil type, building age, and ventilation systems can influence radon levels. Multi-story buildings are not immune either—pressurization systems can spread radon throughout the structure.
Industries Most at Risk of Radon Exposure
- Warehouses with large, unsealed concrete floors
- Offices located in basements or ground levels
- Schools, daycare centers, and healthcare facilities with older foundations
- Manufacturing plants with poor ventilation systems
Testing for Radon: A Workplace Safety Priority
- Short-term Tests: Quick and affordable, these devices measure radon levels over 2-7 days. Ideal for initial screenings.
- Long-term Tests: These measure radon over 90 days for more accurate readings, especially in workplaces with seasonal changes.
- Continuous Radon Monitors: Advanced electronic devices that provide real-time readings—great for large buildings or facilities with ongoing concerns.
Mitigating Radon in Commercial Buildings
- Soil Suction Systems (Sub-Slab Depressurization): Removes radon from beneath the building and vents it outside.
- Sealing Cracks and Gaps: Reduces radon entry points, although not a standalone solution.
- Improved Ventilation Systems: Increases airflow to dilute radon concentrations indoors.
- Pressurization Techniques: Creates positive air pressure indoors to keep radon from entering.
FAQs About Radon in the Workplace
Q: Is radon testing mandatory for commercial buildings?
A: While not federally mandated in the U.S., some states or local governments may require radon testing for certain buildings.
Q: Can radon exposure symptoms be detected early?
A: No, radon exposure does not cause immediate symptoms, which is why proactive testing is essential.
