Children spend up to 8 hours a day at school — making schools one of the most important environments to test for radon. Yet the majority of school buildings in the United States have never been tested.
Why Schools Are at Risk
Schools face the same radon risks as any other building. Radon seeps up from the ground through foundations, and classrooms on lower floors — especially those in basements or at ground level — can accumulate dangerous concentrations.
Several factors make schools particularly concerning:
- High occupancy — Many children spend long hours in the same rooms, increasing cumulative exposure.
- Older buildings — Many school buildings are decades old with aging foundations and more potential entry points for radon.
- Limited testing — Unlike homes, schools are rarely required by law to test for radon.
- Vulnerable population — Children's developing lungs are more susceptible to radiation damage than adult lungs.
What the EPA Says About Schools
The EPA has a voluntary program called IAQ Tools for Schools that encourages schools to test for radon and other indoor air quality issues. The EPA recommends that all schools test for radon and take action if levels exceed 4 pCi/L.
Despite these recommendations, radon testing in schools remains inconsistent across states, with no federal mandate requiring it.
What Parents Can Do
- Ask your school whether it has been tested for radon and request the results.
- Contact your school board to advocate for mandatory radon testing in all district buildings.
- Know your state's requirements — a handful of states require radon testing in schools; check if yours is one of them.
- Share information with other parents to raise awareness about this overlooked issue.
What Schools Can Do
- Test all rooms on the lowest occupied floor using certified radon measurement professionals.
- Retest every 2 years or after any renovation work.
- Install mitigation systems in any area where levels exceed 4 pCi/L.
- Communicate results transparently with parents and staff.
Radon Awareness Starts at Home
While advocating for school testing, make sure your own home is protected too. The GZAIR Radon Detector provides continuous monitoring so your family is safe both at home and informed about risks elsewhere.
0 comments