MAH_2019

Protocol for Conducting Measurements of ANSI/AARST MAH 2019 Radon and Radon Decay Products in Homes 7 5.3 The Extended Testing Protocol Note—This protocol builds upon protocols developed by EPA relative to EPA’s “ A Citizen’s Guide to Radon .” Table 5.3 Extended Testing Protocol (Required Procedure and Summary) Step 1 Single Short-Term Test Testing is conducted using a short-term detector at each test location. Step 2 Retest locations where the initial short-term tests meet or exceed the action level , e.g., 4 pCi/L. If the first short-term test is twice the action level or greater, a second short-term test is to be conducted without delay. 1 If the first short-term test exceeds the action level but is less than twice the action level , either a second short-term test or a long-term test is to be conducted. Step 3 Decisions to Fix the Building Mitigation decisions are to be based on the long-term test results or the average of the two short-term test results. 2 Fix the building if test results meet or exceed the action level , e.g., 4 pCi/L. Consider fixing the building if results are greater than half the action level , e.g., between 2 and 4 pCi/L. 1 Note—While decisions to mitigate at any time are not prohibited, the second test aids confidence that decisions are not being made based on a faulty test device or unexpected conditions 2 Note—If two short-term test results disagree in terms of making a mitigation decision, see Section 7.2 5.4 Shared Building Testing 5.4.1 Testing individual dwellings within a shared building When testing only one or several dwellings that are part of a shared building (e.g., duplex, townhouse or apartment) and there are dwellings or occupied units above or below the dwelling(s) to be tested, closed- building protocol conditions are required for all portions of the building, including dwellings above and below the tested dwelling(s). Exception—Testing is permitted if closed-building conditions in other dwellings are not achieved when it is beyond the control of the person(s) conducting the test. However, this situation requires that the conditions, circumstances and appropriate recommendations are described in writing for inclusion with reports when distributed. Note—It is best to choose test periods when closed-building conditions exist for the whole building. 5.4.2 Testing a sizable portion of dwellings within a shared building If the purpose of testing is to assess radon hazards for an entire building or a sizable portion of a building, testing is to be conducted in accordance with: a) ANSI/AARST MAMF “ Protocol for Conducting Measurements of Radon and Radon Decay Products in Multifamily Buildings ” or, as applicable b) ANSI/AARST MALB “ Protocol for Conducting Measurements of Radon and Radon Decay Products in Schools and Large Buildings ” in addition to, or as otherwise required by, local statutes.