Public health policy for testing of radon in Montana schools

Radon as a human carcinogen has been clearly documented and children are an especially vulnerable population due to biophysical characteristics and duration of exposure. An investigation was necessary to determine if health policies exist to protect school children from radon exposure. This study inventoried the states with regulations regarding school radon testing. Nine states, eight with high geographic risk, have school testing policies. The implication of the policy inventory is that 28 high-radon states do not have policies in place to protect school children from radon. The need for well written policy is evident and as states consider public health initiatives, radon testing in schools should be included in that discussion. The authors drafted a public health policy governing testing of radon in Montana schools based on the best practices included in the nine states. The study authors recommend working with the state attorneys general and nursing organizations to adopt the policy.