MALB_2014 with 1-21 Revisions

Conducting Measurements of Radon and Radon ANSI/AARST MALB-2014 with 1/21 Revisions Decay Products in Schools and Large Buildings 16 5.4 The Extended Testing Option Note—This protocol builds upon those developed by EPA, relative to EPA’s “ A Citizen’s Guide to Radon .” Table 5.4 Extended Testing Option—Required Procedure and Summary Step 1 Initial Test Testing at each location is conducted using a single short-term device . Evaluations of occupied versus unoccupied radon concentrations are additionally recommended for non-residential locations. Step 2 Follow-up Test Options Retest locations that meet or exceed the action level , e.g., 4 pCi/L . Follow-up testing requirements allow the following options: 1 , 2 a) A second test with a short-term device is conducted. Where a first test is twice the action level or greater, this confirmation test should be conducted without delay; or b) Where a first test is less than twice the action level , testing can be conducted with a long-term test device for an extended period if the situation allows a closer evaluation of annual average to radon concentrations; or c) Evaluation of occupied versus unoccupied radon concentrations for non-residential locations. Step 3 Decisions to Fix the Building Mitigation decisions are to be based on the average of the two test results from short-term devices or the results from long-term testing 3 , 4 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 Where follow-up testing is not completed within 12 months after completing Step 1, the testing procedure shall be restarted with Step 1, in accordance with either Section 5.3 or this Section 5.4 . 2 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. 3 Note— Section 7.2 provides requirements for when the test result from two short-term test devices disagree in terms of making a mitigation decision. 4 Where evaluations of occupied versus unoccupied concentrations have been conducted in accordance with Section 5.2 , report recommendations shall account for radon exposures indicated by the evaluation. 5.4.1 Client Advisory required If choosing to use the Extended testing option in Table 5.4 under a time-sensitive situation, the client shall be informed in writing prior to conducting tests that: a) Test results from Steps 1 and 2 of the Extended testing protocol are to be used for mitigation decisions, and b) Time-sensitive situations will often not permit long test periods to more closely evaluate annual exposures to radon .