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RADON DIAGNOSTIC MEASUREMENT GUIDANCE FOR LARGE BUILDINGS - VOLUME 2. APPENDICES
Citation:
Menetrez*, M Y. AND R. Kulp*. RADON DIAGNOSTIC MEASUREMENT GUIDANCE FOR LARGE BUILDINGS - VOLUME 2. APPENDICES. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, EPA/600/R-97/064b (NTIS PB97-189724), 1997.
Impact/Purpose:
information
Description:
The report discusses the development of radon diagnostic procedures and mitigation strategies applicable to a variety of large non-residential buildings commonly found in Florida. The investigations document and evaluate the nature of radon occurrence and entry mechanisms for radon, the effects of heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system configuration and operation on radon entry and dilution, and the significance of occupancy patterns, building height, and other building construction features. A primary focus of the project was the effect of the HVAC systems of a large building on the transport, entry and (hopefully) the minimization of indoor radon in the building. Two buildings were investigated, both of which showed an inverse relationship between dedicated ventilation air and indoor radon concentrations, as was expected. Both also showed signs of unusual HVAC design, operation, and maintenance that presumably adversely affected indoor radon and other indoor air quality (IAQ) variables. The second building showed clear indication of foundation design elements that contributed to radon entry. Among recommendations relevant to building standards that can be concluded from the project is that design and construction should concentrate on elimination of major soil gas pathways such as hollow walls and unsealed utility penetrations.