HD6 - The Need for Regulating Commercial Testers of Radon Gas

  • Published: 1990
  • Author: Board of Commerce
  • Enabling Authority: House Joint Resolution 233 (Regular Session, 1989)

Executive Summary:
A. Study Overview

This study was initiated as a result of House Joint Resolution 233 to determine the need for regulating commercial testers of radon gas in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The Board of Commerce through the means of survey data, public hearings, and written comments, reviewed the nature of the occupation, its unregulated effect on the public, and the existing statutory requirements affecting the occupation.

The Board's recommendation is based on an extensive analysis of this information

B. Key Findings

1. The search for complaints against radon gas testers revealed little evidence of harm to the public health, safety, or welfare.

2. The radon gas testing industry is relatively found and there are numerous factors which can affect the outcome of a test.

3. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Virginia Bureau of Radiological Health provide technical and helpful advice to the public on radon gas testing.

C. Conclusions

Three major conclusions have been drawn as a result of this study.

1. There are no documented cases of harm because of radon gas testers to the public health, safety, or welfare which would justify regulation of radon gas testers.

2. The Virginia statutory requirements that radon gas testers and mitigators (effective April 1, 1990) be listed by the EPA's Radon Measurement Proficiency Program provide protection for the public.

3. The industry is constantly changing and the federal government as well as the real estate industry will be providing regulatory guidance in the coming years.

D. Recommendation

Based on the above conclusions, the Board of Commerce recommends that no additional form of occupational regulation be imposed at this time.