The American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (AARST) and its National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) recently issued an advisory on using the test results from an electronic consumer radon device for decision on whether or not to mitigate radon in commercial or real estate transactions. As a trusted home inspection service serving Minnetonka and the surrounding areas, we wanted to tell our customers about this new advisory and how it pertains to real estate transactions.
In this advisory, the AARST-NRPP is basically saying that there are radon devices on the market today for consumers that are not recognized by the NRPP as valid tests.
The AARST-NRPP goes on to state that unless the device is on the NRPP’s approved list of radon devices, the test results from that device will not be recognized as valid test results. If you are purchasing a radon device and it is not listed on the approved list, that means the device has not undergone the evaluation needed to meet the requirements that were established by the NRPP. The NRPP’s program requires the devices to demonstrate that they are accurate and will continue to be accurate and reliable throughout their usage.
The advisory goes on to state that the program classifies test devices. The two classifications are Continuous Radon Monitors (CRM) and Electronic Integrating Devices (EID).
A CRM is defined as a radon device that is:
(1) is capable of providing reviewable, numeric measurements of radon concentration averaged over time intervals of 1 hour or less,
(2) has a minimum detectable concentration (MDC) of no greater than 148 Bq/m3 (4 pCi/L) for a 1-hour measurement, and
(3) has a calibration factor of at least 2 counts per hour per 37 Bq/m3 (0.054 counts per hour [cph] per Bq/m3 or 2 cph per pCi/L).
An EID is defined as a radon device that:
(1) does not meet the specifications of the definition of a CRM in this standard,
(2) displays or otherwise provides results only for time periods at least as long as those for which it has demonstrated compliance with the performance requirements of this standard.
EIDs that cannot provide reviewable hourly data are not considered CRMs for the purposes of test protocol requirements.
If an NRPP-certified professional does not use one of the radon devices listed under the protocols and standards that were required for their certification, that professional could be subjected to disciplinary actions like suspension or termination of their professional credentials. Plus, if a non-certified individual uses the results from a non-approved radon device to decide whether or not to mitigate radon in a commercial or real estate transaction may be held liable in regards to the validity and representation of the test results.
In order to avoid the hassle and potential expense of using a non-approved radon device, call our home inspection service. Our professionals are certified and fully trained in how to use the best and most accurate radon devices during radon testing to ensure that the results are completely valid.
If you need a reliable and professional home inspection service in Minnetonka, call AmeriSpec Home Inspection Service at 952-854-5110 or you can Contact Us.
The knowledge, skill and experience required to follow these “tips” varies; if you are in doubt as to your ability to properly and safely implement these suggestions, call a qualified professional first. Every home appliance and system is different as are the problems that can affect them. Accordingly, the above-referenced tips are meant only as suggestions to be considered for the listed problems. AmeriSpec cannot be responsible for any damages arising from any actions taken pursuant to tips provided herein. This list is not exhaustive and other remedies may be needed in addition to those listed above.
