Radon a Health Threat for Residents of Some Heavily Populated Regions of California

While California may not have as many geographical regions with the highest potential for elevated indoor radon levels (greater than 4 pCi/L) as some other states, there are still some heavily populated regions recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as falling into this category.  Due to its large population, some urban areas are believed to have many homes that could have elevated levels of this significant cause of lung cancer.
 
According to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), “Radon can be found throughout California because uranium exists in all rock and soil.  Although certain areas of the state are more likely to contain higher radon levels than others, radon is a house-to-house issue.  You may live in an area of low radon potential yet your house can have elevated radon but your neighbor’s house has a low radon level.”  The CDPH also states, “All houses should be tested for radon, if not during the sale or purchase, at least after you take occupancy.” 
 
The EPA reports that exposure to radon in the home is responsible for an estimated 20,000 lung cancer deaths each year.  Radon comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water.  The gas can move up through the ground and into buildings through cracks, sumps and other holes in the foundation or slab.
 
“You cannot see, taste or smell radon so it’s important to have your home tested,” said Michael Chapman, Laboratory Manager of LA Testing’s Garden Grove facility. “It is an inexpensive test that can provide peace of mind or indicate if something needs to be done to mitigate any radon gas that may be present.  Radon is also a concern for anywhere that people spend a significant amount of time.  This includes schools and where people work. Exposure to radon is a preventable health risk if people are informed and testing is a key part of the equation.”
 
LA Testing, based in California, provides test kits and analysis for property owners and building occupants concerned about the health risks associated with exposure to elevated levels of radon.  To learn more about testing for radon and other indoor environmental issues, please visit www.LATesting.com, email info@LATesting.com or call (800) 755-1794. 
 
About LA Testing
LA Testing is California’s leading laboratory for food testing and indoor air quality testing of asbestos, mold, lead, VOCs, formaldehyde, soot, char, ash and smoke damage, particulates and other chemicals.  In addition, LA Testing offers a full range of air sampling and investigative equipment to professionals and the general public. LA Testing maintains an extensive list of accreditations including: AIHA LAP LLC., AIHA ELLAP, AIHA EMLAP and AIHA IHLAP, NVLAP, State of California, State of Hawaii Department of Health and other states.  LA Testing, along with the EMSL Analytical, Inc. network, has multiple laboratories throughout California including South Pasadena, Garden Grove, San Leandro and San Diego.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

LA Testing

(1) (856) 303-2503

Contact via E-mail