Radon Testing in Wisconsin Childcare Centers
As a leading home inspection company, we understand the invisible threats that lurk within our living and learning spaces.
Radon exposure is a critical, often overlooked aspect of child safety that can present serious health risks. This is particularly concerning in childcare centers, where young, developing lungs are most susceptible.
This is why radon testing is required for child care and home care centers in Wisconsin every two years. Through this article, we will discuss the importance of regular radon inspections in childcare centers, ensuring the safest environment possible for our children.
Summary:
- The Dangers of Radon Exposure
- Importance of Radon Testing in Childcare Centers
- How Radon Testing Works
- What if Radon Levels are High?
- Home Inspections & Radon Testing
- Schedule Your Test Today
1. The Dangers of Radon Exposure
Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas that occurs naturally in soil and rocks. It is produced by the decay of uranium which can be found in varying levels within our earth’s crust. When radon seeps out of the ground, it can enter buildings through cracks or gaps in the foundation, walls, or floors. Once inside, it can accumulate and reach dangerous levels.
Radon exposure is a significant health hazard, particularly in enclosed spaces like daycares and childcare centers. As a naturally occurring radioactive gas, radon is both odorless and colorless, making it difficult to detect without specialized testing. Alarmingly, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and the second leading cause overall after smoking.
2. Importance of Radon Testing in Childcare Centers
The importance of radon testing in childcare centers cannot be understated. As a silent yet potentially deadly gas, radon exposure can be more detrimental to children due to their developing lungs and faster breathing rates. Additionally, children often spend many hours a day in these facilities.
The only way to accurately determine the radon level in a building is through proper testing. Fortunately, testing for radon gas in daycares is straightforward, cost-effective, and can be completed in as little as 72 hours with a certified professional. Price will likely vary depending on the size of the facility.
In most areas, including the state of Wisconsin, it’s required that childcare centers test for radon at least every two years for facilities to keep their childcare license. If you’re unsure, check your state health department for guidelines.
3. How Radon Testing Works
Radon testing begins with a licensed professional placing a radon detection device in the lowest occupied level of the building, usually the basement or ground floor, where radon levels are typically highest. This device will be left undisturbed overnight to measure the concentration of radon gas in the air.
The detector absorbs radon or its decay products, and then it’s sent to a lab for analysis. The results will indicate whether the radon levels are safe or if mitigation measures are needed.
It’s important to note that radon levels can fluctuate over time due to changes in weather, ventilation, and building usage. Therefore, experts recommend regular testing at different times of the year to get an accurate picture of the radon risk.
4. What if Radon Levels are High?
If high levels of radon are detected in any environment, steps must be taken to mitigate the issue. Mitigation strategies typically involve improving the ventilation and sealing up any cracks or gaps in the foundation where radon might be entering.
For more severe cases, a radon mitigation system may need to be installed. This system works by using a vent pipe and fan to pull radon from under the building and safely vent it outdoors, lowering the concentration of radon inside.
After the mitigation measures have been implemented, it is essential to retest to ensure that radon levels have indeed been reduced to a safe level. Always consult with a certified radon professional to ensure the process is done correctly and safely.
5. Home Inspectors & Radon Testing
Home inspectors are trained professionals who understand the science behind radon, its sources, and the danger it poses. They know where to look, how to conduct accurate tests, and provide comprehensive reports detailing their findings because radon testing is an essential part of the home buying process.
By conducting regular inspections from certified professionals, childcare facilities can ensure they maintain a healthy, safe environment for children, free from the harmful effects of radon exposure.
6. Schedule Your Test Today
If you are in need of Milwaukee radon testing or home inspection services, don’t hesitate to contact Towne & Country Building Inspection. We are one of Milwaukee’s few home inspection companies that are certified in radon testing through the EPA and National Radon Proficiency Program.
We have experience testing in childcare facilities through Milwaukee & Waukesha, WI and are happy to answer any questions you have. Let’s work together to keep our children safe.
By Scot McLean, owner of Towne & Country Building Inspection. Scot is a highly experienced licensed home inspector and radon measurement provider with over 20 years of service in Wisconsin. He held the past presidency of the Milwaukee chapter of WAHI (Wisconsin Association of Home Inspectors) and is an active member of both the Wisconsin Trust for Historic Preservation and the Wisconsin Historical Society. Scot also carries certifications from the American Society of Home Inspections (ASHI) and the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP). Get your project inspected by a professional – contact Towne & Country today.
