Radon222 is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that forms from the decay of naturally occurring Uranium238. Since Uranium238 occurs in soil and rock throughout the world, radon exposure is universal; radon is present not only indoors but outdoors. Radon exposure in homes is largely a result of radon-contaminated gas rising from the soil. This makes it an unusual indoor air pollutant in that it has a natural source, (Frumkin and Jonathan, 2001).
Radon escapes from the ground into the outdoor air. It is diluted to low concentrations and is not a concern. However, radon that enters an enclosed space, such as a home, can sometimes accumulate to high levels, (CMHC, 1997).
Any home may have elevated radon levels. Gaseous radon can enter a home through foundation cracks, openings for pipes, wall/floor joints, chimneys, sumps, unfinished crawl spaces, and hollow, concrete block foundations. Once inside, the gas may be trapped and accumulated, (Jeanette and Michael, 1996).
Comparative......
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