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Household Radon Gas Occurrences and Geographic Distribution in Western Michigan

Abstract

Pseudorandomized cluster sampling was used to select households from an initial pool of households geographically clustered in two Michigan counties, Ottawa and Kent. In Ottawa County and Kent County, 17.6% of 346 households sampled were above the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) action level for radon (4 pCi/L). In Ottawa County, approximately 22.9% (N = 131) of sampled households exceeded U.S. EPA limits, and in Kent County, approximately 14.4% (N = 215) had indoor radon concentrations greater than U.S. EPA limits. Elevated indoor radon levels are broadly correlative with two bedrock formations, the Marshall and Michigan Formations, and areas where these two bedrock formations are overlain by glacial outwash and postglacial alluvium. More detailed mapping using GIS can help educate and motivate homeowners. This information will inform homeowners of radon risk and allow them to implement preventive measures in cooperation with local health departments and other stakeholders.

Authors

  • Azizur R. Molla, MPH, PhD, Grand Valley State University
  • Peter J. Wampler, PhD, RPG, Grand Valley State University
Volume#: 80.3
Page #: 16-20 
Publication Month: October 2017

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