LICENSING AND REGULATION

Radon Measurement adopted rule changes of 2005

In 2005 the Illinois Emergency Management Agency has modified and adopted certain rules in view of the current practices followed by the radon measurement people. The following are some of the main changes noted:

  1. Measurement location:
    • Lowest structural area suitable for occupancy
    • In rooms regularly occupied by individuals
  2. Measurement:
    • Unoccupied homes are to be tested with the HVAC system set at 72 degrees F plus or minus 5 degrees F.
    • According to the new adopted rule hot water heaters can be operated during measurement unlike the old rule.
    • The initial, follow up and average of duplicate measurements are to be reported. The average shall be considered appropriate as the basis for determining the need for mitigation.
  3. In real estate:
    • Simultaneous testing should be done and reported along with the average.
    • The precision of simultaneous measurements shall be monitored and recorded for quality assurance records.
    • Controls consistent with the devices used should be established by the measurement licensees
  4. Conditions when radon measurement shall not be made:
    • Severe storms or periods of sustained high winds.
    • During renovation of a building, especially during structural changes.
    • Schools and commercial buildings shall only be tested for radon during periods when HVAC system is operating that is when the building is occupied even if the testing occurs during holidays or when the school is not in session.

    5. For further details about Measurement Protocol see Section 422.130.

Copyright 2005, Great Lakes Centers for Occupational & Environmental Safety & Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, School of Public Health.