District to begin radon mitigation in three classrooms

Three classrooms at the Cohoes City School District’s Page Avenue School recently tested above the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) guideline for radon. This testing was part of a routine air-quality check conducted as part of the Cohoes City School District's health and safety program.

The tests found slightly more than 4 picoCuries per liter of radon in the air in these three classrooms. While the levels are above the EPA's recommended guidelines of 4 picoCuries per liter (a level that suggests action be taken), the New York State Department of Health has not indicated there is any need to move students or that their safety or health are being impacted. The EPA guidelines state that this level of radon may be used as an indicator that schools should take action to mitigate the presence of radon gas.

School officials are taking immediate steps to address this issue. The district is working with four risk management and construction companies – Needham Risk Management Associates, CS Arch, Camroden Associates and Turner Construction Company – to design and install a mitigation system that will remedy the situation. Although remediation of the problem is not required, the schools believe it is in our best interest to have it done.

Once the mitigation project is approved by the state, district officials anticipate immediate installation. Once installed, additional tests will be taken and reviewed by the New York State Department of Health to make sure the system is effective.

Radon is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that enters into buildings through the soil. The only way to detect radon is through testing. Many health professionals believe that long-term exposure to high levels of radon could increase a person's risk for cancer.

"We hope the proactive approach that the Cohoes City School District has taken toward evaluating and addressing environmental health issues inspires others to ensure that they have properly evaluated their working, learning or living environments," said Mike Needham, CSP, RES, CFPS, CET, a consultant for the Cohoes City School District from Needham Risk Management Resource Group.

"The health and safety of the staff and students in its buildings are a priority for the Cohoes City School District and the district is committed to quickly responding to this problem so we can focus on our core mission — educating students," said Robert Libby, assistant superintendent for business & operations. "We will continue to communicate with you as we continue to take the necessary steps and testing."

For more information about radon, visit the EPA's radon page at www.epa/gov/radon
Letter sent to parents
Radon Informational Sheet