Radon Calling?

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Another testing service, Airchek (P.O. Box 100, Penrose, NC 28766), uses a method that was refined for indoor measurement of radon by Dr. Andreas C. George of the U.S. Department of Energy's Environmental Measurements Laboratory. Airchek sends a porous bag containing 50 grams of activated carbon (charcoal) that is exposed in the home for four to six days, absorbs radon, and then is sent to a laboratory for analysis. Typical total turn-around time for the standard service is three to five weeks, and the cost is $19.95.

From both a time and a cost standpoint, Airchek's testing has obvious advantages. You can order either the standard ($19.95) or the deluxe ($29.95) service from Airchek by major credit card over a toll-free line (800/ CKRADON, or 704/862-4037 in North Carolina). Within 24 hours, the staff will ship a package to you by first-class or bulk-rate mail (standard service) or United Parcel Service blue label (deluxe service). Inside the airtight, foil-lined envelope, you'll find a brown bag with the activated carbon, instructions, and a return envelope.

The sample bag stays in your home—located according to Airchek's detailed instructions—for four to six days. Then you seal it carefully in the airtight, foil-lined return envelope and send it to the laboratory by first-class mail, UPS, or whatever method you prefer. (Bear in mind that you pay the postage on this leg.) It's important, however, to get the sample to the lab as soon as possible after it's sealed. After about six days, the radon decays to the point where it begins to affect the accuracy of the test; after ten days, about 5070 loss can be expected.

All laboratory work is done by Alpha Energy Laboratories in Dallas, Texas, using sophisticated, computer-controlled sodiumiodide testers. Alpha Energy has been doing this sort of work for five years, and the laboratory manager has 18 years of experience in radiation measurement. Testing is completed within 24 hours of receipt of the sample, and the results are transmitted over phone lines from Alpha Energy's computer in Dallas back to Airchek's computer in North Carolina. Before another 24 hours have elapsed, Airchek will send you the results by first-class mail. Those ordering deluxe service will also receive a phone call within 24 hours of the completion of testing, as well as preference at all stages of processing. Deluxe service customers can expect results within 10 to 12 days of ordering the testing.

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