Offering a Wide Range of Radon Related Services
 

Commercial Building:
A local measurement firm had conducted short-term, closed building radon tests on a large commercial building.  The tests were conducted over the weekend, when workers were not present thereby reducing the potential of the test device disturbance.  The tests indicated exposures in excess of the US EPA's action level of 4.0 pCi/L.  CVC was contracted to mitigate the structure.  Before proceeding, CVC simultaneously deployed both a continuous radon and a continuous working level monitor in the area of concern.  Although not required, CVC performed these tests to determine actual health risks to occupants.  The results are shown in the graph below:

Hourly plot of Radon (pCi/L) and Radon Decay Products (WL)

The plot above shows both radon and radon decay product concentrations during different conditions of HVAC system operation.  The HVAC was shut down after working hours and turned on at the start of a new work shift.  The radon (green line) decreased when the HVAC system was turned on and fresh air make-up vents provided dilution.  The radon decay products (WL-yellow line) reduced dramatically when the HVAC system was turned on and air circulation caused the radon decay products to attach to walls and other fixed objects where they pose no risk.

Conclusion:
During occupied conditions (HVAC on), the health risk was significantly lower than what the original short-term measurement data had indicated.

Result:
The area continued to be utilized.  The need to maintain proper HVAC operation and set back timing was reinforced.  Additional fresh air make-up was added to further reduce radon and improve other indoor air concerns.

The use of continuous radon and radon decay product measurement devices can be expensive, but may be justified when large, complex mitigation systems are contemplated.  This is especially true in large buildings where HVAC systems can have a significant impact.

For more information on radon decay product working level measurements go to Radon Decay Product Measurements.

CVC has the equipment and the qualifications to conduct advanced radon
 and radon decay product measurements.

            To contact us:

Colorado Vintage Companies, Inc.
525 E Fountain Blvd; Colorado Springs, CO  80903
Phone:  719-632-1215; Fax:  719-632-9607
Email:  coloradovintage@aol.com

Last modified: 06/04/04