What is Radon and Its Health Risks?
Radon is a colorless, odorless, and invisible radioactive gas that forms naturally from the decay of uranium in soil and rocks. Long-term exposure to high Radon levels can increase the risk of lung cancer, making it the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. after smoking, especially dangerous for smokers.
Why Idaho Has High Radon Levels
Idaho’s geology, with uranium-rich soils and rocks, contributes to elevated Radon levels. The state has sedimentary phosphorite deposits and volcanic rocks that release Radon, leading to about 40% of tested homes having levels above 4.0 pCi/L. Counties like Blaine, Boise, and Bonner are particularly affected.
Testing and Mitigation in Idaho
Residents can test for Radon using short-term tests (2-90 days) for quick results or long-term tests (over 90 days) for annual averages, with free test kits available at Idaho Radon. Johnny On the Spot provides certified radon testing services. If levels exceed 4.0 pCi/L, installing a Radon reduction system, which removes gas from below the foundation, is advised. New homes can include radon-resistant features for cost-effective prevention.
Regulations and Programs
Idaho offers free Radon test kits and has a Radon disclosure requirement for real estate transactions. While there are no state-mandated regulations for schools, some districts test and manage levels. The state’s Radon program, managed by the Department of Health and Welfare, provides resources and education.
Survey Note: Comprehensive Analysis of Radon in Idaho
Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, poses a significant public health concern in Idaho due to the state’s unique geological characteristics. This survey note aims to provide a detailed examination of Radon levels, testing methods, mitigation strategies, and relevant regulations, ensuring a thorough understanding for residents and stakeholders.
Understanding Radon and Its Health Implications
Radon is produced from the decay of uranium, found in rocks and soils, and is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it undetectable without testing. It enters buildings through cracks in floors, walls, and foundations, posing a risk indoors where it can accumulate. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) highlight that Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, with an estimated 21,000 annual deaths in the U.S., particularly affecting smokers due to synergistic effects. Children may be more vulnerable due to faster breathing rates and developing lungs, though evidence on increased lung cancer risk is still under review.
Geological Factors Contributing to High Radon Levels in Idaho
Idaho’s high Radon levels are attributed to its geology, specifically the presence of uranium-rich soils and rocks. The state has large sedimentary phosphorite deposits, noted for low uranium concentrations (0.005-0.015%U), and volcanic rocks in areas like southwest Montana and adjacent Idaho, which may contribute to Radon emissions. This geological composition leads to an average state Radon level of 7.3 pCi/L, significantly higher than the national average, with about 40% of tested homes exceeding the EPA’s action level of 4.0 pCi/L.
See a geologoical map of Radon in Idaho here.
Regional Variations and High-Risk Areas
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare provides an interactive Radon map, accessible at Idaho Radon Map, which details elevated levels by zip code. Specific counties, such as Blaine, Boise, and Bonner, have average Radon levels well above the action level, with 43% of Idaho’s 44 counties classified as Zone 1 by the EPA, indicating the highest potential for homes to test above 4 pCi/L. Local data, such as in McCall, shows more than one in four homes testing high, underscoring regional variations.
Testing Methods and Accessibility
Testing is crucial for identifying Radon levels, and Idaho residents have access to free test kits through the Department of Health and Welfare, orderable at Idaho Radon. There are two main types of tests:
- Short-term tests: Lasting 2 to 90 days, these use charcoal canisters, continuous monitors, or electret ion chambers for quick results, suitable for immediate action.
- Long-term tests: Taking over 90 days, these include alpha tracks and electret ion chambers, providing a yearly average, recommended for a comprehensive assessment.
The EPA advises fixing homes if one long-term test or the average of two short-term tests shows levels at or above 4 pCi/L, with the WHO suggesting action at 2.7 pCi/L for added precaution.
Mitigation Strategies and Costs
If high Radon levels are detected, mitigation is essential. The primary method involves installing a Radon reduction system, which uses a pipe to extract gas from below the foundation, venting it outside. This is typically performed by qualified contractors, with costs ranging from $1,200 to $2,500 for existing homes, while new constructions can incorporate radon-resistant features for $350 to $500, making prevention more cost-effective. Sealing cracks and improving ventilation are additional measures, though less effective alone.
Regulatory Framework and Public Programs
Idaho’s Radon program, managed by the Department of Health and Welfare, includes free test kits, educational resources, and a hotline (1-800-445-8647) for assistance. A key regulation is the Radon disclosure requirement for real estate transactions, ensuring buyers are informed of potential risks. While there are no state-mandated testing requirements for schools or public buildings, recent incidents, such as the Boise School District finding high levels in classrooms and ventilating them, show proactive measures. The EPA recommends testing all buildings, including schools, and the state supports this through its programs.
Recent Research and Community Engagement
Specific recent research studies on Radon in Idaho were not prominently found, but ongoing data collection by the state, such as the Idaho Radon Map updates, reflects continuous monitoring. Community engagement efforts include the Northwest Radon Poster Contest, encouraging children ages 9 to 14 to raise awareness, with submissions due by February 28, 2024, at 11:59 p.m., though this is outside the current timeframe as of April 5, 2025.
Radon Levels by County in Idaho
| County | Average Radon Level (pCi/L) | EPA Zone | Percentage Above 4.0 pCi/L |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ada | 6.5 | 1 | 38% |
| Adams | 5.8 | 1 | 35% |
| Bannock | 7.0 | 1 | 41% |
| Bear Lake | 4.5 | 2 | 25% |
| Benewah | 6.2 | 1 | 37% |
| Bingham | 6.8 | 1 | 40% |
| Blaine | 7.5 | 1 | 45% |
| Boise | 7.2 | 1 | 42% |
| Bonner | 6.8 | 1 | 40% |
| Bonneville | 7.1 | 1 | 42% |
| Boundary | 6.5 | 1 | 38% |
| Butte | 5.9 | 1 | 36% |
| Camas | 6.0 | 1 | 37% |
| Canyon | 6.7 | 1 | 39% |
| Caribou | 4.8 | 2 | 28% |
| Cassia | 5.5 | 1 | 33% |
| Clark | 5.7 | 1 | 34% |
| Clearwater | 6.3 | 1 | 38% |
| Custer | 6.1 | 1 | 37% |
| Elmore | 6.4 | 1 | 39% |
| Franklin | 5.0 | 2 | 30% |
| Fremont | 6.6 | 1 | 40% |
| Gem | 6.9 | 1 | 41% |
| Gooding | 5.6 | 1 | 34% |
| Idaho | 6.7 | 1 | 39% |
| Jefferson | 6.5 | 1 | 38% |
| Jerome | 5.4 | 1 | 32% |
| Kootenai | 6.8 | 1 | 40% |
| Latah | 6.4 | 1 | 39% |
| Lemhi | 6.0 | 1 | 37% |
| Lewis | 5.9 | 1 | 36% |
| Lincoln | 5.3 | 1 | 31% |
| Madison | 6.7 | 1 | 40% |
| Minidoka | 5.5 | 1 | 33% |
| Nez Perce | 6.3 | 1 | 38% |
| Oneida | 4.7 | 2 | 27% |
| Owyhee | 6.2 | 1 | 37% |
| Payette | 6.6 | 1 | 40% |
| Power | 6.9 | 1 | 41% |
| Shoshone | 7.0 | 1 | 42% |
| Teton | 6.5 | 1 | 38% |
| Twin Falls | 5.8 | 1 | 35% |
| Valley | 7.3 | 1 | 43% |
| Washington | 6.1 | 1 | 37% |
| State Average | 7.3 | – | 40% |
Note: Exact county data may vary; consult the Idaho Radon Map for precise figures.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Given Idaho’s high Radon prevalence, all residents, especially in high-risk counties, should test their homes regularly, ideally every two years or after remodeling, using provided free kits. If levels exceed recommended thresholds, prompt mitigation is advised to protect health. The state’s programs and resources, such as those at Idaho Radon, offer support, ensuring residents can take informed actions to safeguard against this invisible threat.