Asbestos Massachusetts

By Author: Asbestos Massachusetts
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WHAT IS RADON?
Radon is a radioactive gas that is found in soil and rock in all parts of the United States. It is formed by the decay of uranium, which is a natural process. Radon gas is invisible, and it has no odor or taste.
What Types of Buildings Contain Radon?
• Radon may be found in all types of homes and buildings in the United States. If there is radon gas in the ground, it can seep into a building.
• Radon typically moves up from the ground into a home through drains, cracks or other holes in the foundation. Radon then can be trapped inside the home.
HOW DOES RADON AFFECT HEALTH?
• Studies show that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, behind cigarette smoking.
• The higher the radon level indoors, the greater the amount you breathe. Radon gas decays into radioactive particles that can get trapped in your lungs when you breathe. As they break down, these particles release small bursts of energy. This can damage lung tissue.
• Inhaling indoor air containing radon over a period of many years can increase your risk of getting lung cancer. Your chance ...
... of getting lung cancer from radon depends on how much radon is in your home and how much time you spend in your home. If you are a smoker or a former smoker, the risk of getting lung cancer from radon is even greater. Does Your Home Have High Radon Levels? You cannot see, smell or taste radon. Therefore, testing is the only way to determine the radon level in your home.
TEN THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MOLD
• Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory complaints.
• There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
• If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
• Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
• Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by:
• Venting bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside
• Using air conditioners and de-humidifiers
• Increasing ventilation
• Using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning
• Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
• Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
• Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
• In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
• Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

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