The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released Proposed Radon Credentialing Criteria, composed of an Evaluation Framework a nd Implementation Approach. These criteria will help align and encourage consistency across radon credentialing programs and help ensure consumer protection and protect public health. The criteria are designed to support establishment and maintenance of a base level of organizational and program-specific competencies, grounded in third-party accreditation to ISO/IEC 17024:2012, while maintaining flexibility for state-run programs. The comment period closes June 21, 2023.
Background:
Since 1988, the EPA has administered a non-regulatory program under the Indoor Radon Abatement Act (IRAA) to reduce exposure to indoor radon by promoting awareness, testing, installation of radon mitigation systems in existing homes, and use of radon-resistant new construction (RRNC) techniques in new buildings. The EPA works with state and tribal radon programs, industry, and the public to reduce human exposure to radon, thereby reducing lung cancer deaths. Access to quality service providers who possess the skills required to measure indoor radon levels and conduct mitigation, when necessary, is essential to this mission.
Historically, the EPA has played a key role in establishing a standard of quality for radon service providers. The EPA has developed and maintained a provider credentialing program (or provider proficiency program) and in 2001 completed a one-time evaluation of two certification bodies: the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) and the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB). Since then, the EPA has maintained oversight of radon credentialing programs, provided an associated national radon reference, and supported development of and access to standards of practice for radon measurement and mitigation. Taken together, these activities align with the EPA’s authority to operate a proficiency program designed to identify quality radon measurement and mitigation service providers and radon measurement devices.
EGLE currently does not license or certify radon service providers operating in Michigan. However, EGLE does encourage residents to select credentialed radon service providers who are certified by either the NRPP or the NRSB. Both certification organizations have met the EPA’s previously established criteria to perform radon inspections, use certified radon measurement equipment, and perform radon mitigation activities. Please visit the NRPP or NRSB websites for an up-to-date list of credentialed Michigan radon service providers.
Questions about this message may be directed to Les Smith, III, Indoor Radon Specialist, Radiological Protection Section, Materials Management Division, EGLE, by phone at
517-388-6913 or by e-mail at Radon@Michigan.gov.
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