Radon
Radon Information and Resources:
Radon Testing and Mitigation
Radon testing is recommended in all homes in Nebraska. Conducting a radon test is the only way to know how much radon you are exposed to. Fortunately radon testing is easy and inexpensive, and homes that have high radon levels can be easily fixed. If a home or building has an annual average radon level of 4 pCi/L or higher, it should be mitigated to lower the radon level. New homes can also be built with radon resistant features during construction, called radon resistant new construction. If a home or building has an annual average radon level of 4 pCi/L or higher, it should be mitigated (fixed) to lower the radon level. The Nebraska DHHS Radon Program maintains a list of licensed radon mitigation businesses.
Short-term radon test kits are available at 606 N. Minnesota Ave. #2 Hastings, NE 68901 for $8.00. Kits may also be purchased at Extension offices in Clay, Nuckolls and Webster Counties. For more information, please call us a (402) 462-6211.
Some manufacturers offer special pricing on short-term and long-term test kits for Nebraska residents. Check out the Nebraska Radon Program website for more test kit information.
Radon and real estate transactions: Testing for radon during the sale of a home is an opportune time to determine if the home you are purchasing has elevated levels of radon. While it is not required for a real estate transaction in Nebraska, this is an ideal time to request testing. For these circumstances, you might consider using a licensed radon measurement business to conduct the test.
| Type | When to use it | Where to get it | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Term | Initial testing or retest | SHDHD or County Extension offices | $8.00 |
| Long Term | After result of a short-term test level was between 4-8 pCi/L | Options through Nebraska Dept of Health and Human Services Radon Program: http://dhhs.ne.gov/publichealth/Pages/radon_testkits.aspx | Check website |
| Continuous Monitoring | May be used for measurement in businesses or homes during construction or real estate transaction or for a more detailed description of radon levels over time. | Contact a licensed radon measurement specialist: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Radon.aspx | Ask for quote |
Short-term vs. Long-term Radon Tests
Short-term radon tests run typically from 2 to 7 days. They are useful as an initial screening test because they are inexpensive and the results are received quicker than long-term tests. Long-term tests run from 3 months to a full year and often give a better annual average of your radon exposure, since they can take into account the seasonal variations of radon.
Testing Your Home (Non-Real Estate Transactions)
If you want to know the radon level in your own home, you can conduct a test with a do-it-yourself kit. Follow the instructions that come with the test kit and place the kit in the lowest level where you spend time, preferably in a living room or bedroom. Do not test utility rooms, laundry rooms, or kitchens. If performing a short-term test, ensure windows are kept closed and entry/exit is kept to a minimum.
Testing in Schools & Workplaces
Radon testing in schools, offices, and other workplaces must be conducted by a licensed Radon Measurement Business. The Environmental Protection Agency and the American Lung Association recommend that all schools should be tested for radon, and the Nebraska Radon Program will test a small number of schools each year free of charge.
