RE: Radon Effluent Levels

["Jim Otton" <jkotton@usgs.gov>]

James,

I don't believe that radon emissions to the air are regulated by EPA from any source.  Homes that have installed subslab-ventilation systems to divert radon from entering the living space typically vent high levels of radon (several hundred to several thousands of pCi/L or more) from exhaust pipes above the roofline.  Such emissions are not regulated.  EPA considered developing regulations for emissions of radon from underground mine ventilation systems, but dropped it.

You might contact EPA's Office of Air and Radiation in Washington for a final check

 

Jim Otton

U.S. Geological Survey

-----Original Message-----
From: owner-radsafe@list.vanderbilt.edu [mailto:owner-radsafe@list.vanderbilt.edu]On Behalf Of James Reese
Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2002 8:42 AM
To: radsafe@list.vanderbilt.edu
Subject: Radon Effluent Levels

I have a question that I am hoping that RADSAFE can assist me in finding an answer.  A company I work for recently tested the effluent of a soil gas vapor extraction unit for radon gas.  The levels in the effluent ranged from 40 pCi/l to over 1,000 pCi/l depending upon the time of day, etc.  I have searched the EPA for guidance regarding radon but have not found anything that discusses airborne releases.  My question is does this fall under the CAA or is there other guidance that is applicable?  Is there any “controls” that should be instituted for this type of effluent?

 

Thanks for your help.

 

James Reese

Sr. Health Physicist

ERS Solutions, Inc.

(916) 689-2680 office

(916) 689-6270 fax 

james.reese@worldnet.att.net