Building radon-resistant homes in the U.S.: Strategy for the dissemination of the EPA model standards for control of radon in new residential buildings

EPA Model Standards have been devised, which address techniques for the control of radon in residential buildings. Two types of systems-passive and active-are contained in the standards, which are applicable to basement, slab-on-grade, crawlspace, or combination foundations for detached residences. EPA's program relies on non-mandatory approaches to risk reduction in cooperation with building officials, states, and local communities, and three audiences have been targeted: builders of new homes, buyers of new homes, and local and state officials in charge of developing and enforcing building codes. An overview is provided of EPA's implementation strategy.