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The Florida Department of Health works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

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Radon Exposure in your Home

Radon and Indoor Air Program

Radon is a naturally occurring, odorless, colorless, tasteless, radioactive gas produced from the radioactive decay of radium, found in most soils and earthen construction materials. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. after smoking, and the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that radon is responsible for more than 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year (about one person every 25 minutes) in the United States. Data collected by the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) indicates that 1 in 5 Florida residences has radon levels above the EPA action level of 4 picoCuries per liter (pCi/L). Elevated radon levels have been found in all types of Florida buildings, including manufactured homes, schools and high-rise condominiums.

Radon may be a problem in your home

EPA image of child in room that may contain radon recomending testing

In some areas of Florida, one out of two homes has excessive amounts of radon. Floridians are exposed to concentrated radon gas as it enters their building. The Florida Department of Health, in conjunction with the local county public health units, is working to support Floridians as they protect themselves from radiation exposure from radon gas.

Florida is aggressive in its policies attacking unnecessary radon exposure to the public. Florida is in the forefront in consumer protection concerning radon issues. The state has required radon measurement and reduction companies and personnel to be certified since 1989.  Florida has a mandatory radon testing program for various public facilities, such as public and private schools, day care centers, and 24-hour care facilities such as nursing homes and hospitals. This public testing information allows Floridians to make informed decisions in the care and education of their loved ones.

In Florida businesses and individuals performing radon services must be certified by the Radon Program. This website provides important information from the EPA, as well as radon resistant construction in Florida.