Canadian Supplement to CERTI Radon Mitigation Course

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "Canadian Supplement to CERTI Radon Mitigation Course"

Transcription

1 Canadian Supplement to CERTI Radon Mitigation Course Everything you have learned PLUS! Assumes you have viewed the Canadian Measurement Course Supplement 2013 Center for Environmental Research and Technology, Inc. What is Similar? Approach Active Soil Depressurization Ventilation Common certification oversight National Radon Proficiency Program Radon behavior Radon acts the same on either side of the border 1

2 What are Basic Differences? Measurement Units SI units Active Soil Depressurization Fans can be inside living space Discharges do not have to be above the eave Radon Measurements Long-term test preference Canadian Mitigation Guidance Radon Entry Mitigation Techniques Worker Safety Post-Mitigation Testing Not specifically a radon standard Local codes govern 2

3 Radon Entry Same factors cause entry of radon laden soil gases Emanation Diffusion Radon from water supply Soil to interior pressure differentials Largest factor Wind Stack effect due to colder climate can be more significant in Canada than in lower 48 of U.S. Radon in Water No specified limit for radon in drinking water Low risk from ingestion Outgassing can increase indoor radon levels Actions to reduce indoor air contribution if radon in water levels are in excess of 2,000 Bq/L water May radiological_para-radiologiques-eng.pdf 3

4 Radon from Water Estimation 27 Amount in Water Amount in Air Transfer Factor pci/l of Water pci/l of Air 10, ,000 to 1 Bq/L of Water Bq/M3 of Air to 1 Rate at which radon outgasses is identical (Be careful of units) Example: How much radon in water could yield 200 Bq/M3 in Air 200 Bq/M3 air x10bq/l water per 1 Bq/M3 air = 2,000 Bq/L water Stack Effect Vacuum or Negative Pressure Increases as the outdoor temperature drops relative to a constant indoor temperature. 4

5 Differential Pressure Measurements English Units (U.S.) Inches of Water Column SI Units (Canada) Pascals Most instruments can measure in either unit Switch 9 1 pascal = inches of water column A thousandth of an inch is ¼ of a Pascal You should use a micromanometer than read to 0.1 Pa Stack Effect We have to overcome Independent of HVAC Function of: Building height Outdoor temperature Sources: CERTI RRNC Course Engineers Tool Box 5

6 Canadian Guidance Table Provides Estimate of Stack Effect Reducing Radon Levels in Existing Homes: A Canadian Guide for Professional Contractors Radon Reduction Approaches 1. Reduce Entry Eliminate foundation openings Decrease pressure in soil beneath foundation (ASD) 2. Isolation and Ventilation Change air circulation patterns to intercept radon prior to entering living space Provide dilution air (Heat Recovery Ventilators) 6

7 Ductwork typically leaks FAU: ON Buried returns under significant negative pressure Draws soil gases in through leaks and dumps them inside Buried Ductwork! Reducing Radon Levels in Existing Homes: A Canadian Guide for Professional Contractors Buried Supply- Positive pressure when FAU is off Low soil gas entry into ductwork May depressurize house or force soil gas into home via slab openings FAU: OFF Either buried supply or return provides pathway that interior negative pressures can draw radon in. Sub-Membrane Depressurization (a) Same approach as previously taught Membrane Material 0.08 mm two ply laminated high density poly (~3 mil) Laminated high density poly reinforced with polyester or fiberglass scrim. Polyolefin reinforced with non woven textile EPDM sheets (roofing material) up to 1 mm Thicker material used if area to be used for storage Protective mats can also be used 7

8 Sub-Membrane Depressurization (b) Edges Run up mm on walls (3-12 in.) Caulked AND secured with battens secured with masonry fasteners Seams Overlap 300 mm (12 in.) Caulked Reducing Radon Levels in Existing Homes: A Canadian Guide for Professional Contractors Sub-Membrane Depressurization (c) Penetrations Seal around Collar of membrane material, or Roof flashing Drainage If water can accumulate on top of membrane install trapped drain Penetration Seal Polyurethane caulk Poly sheeting Roof Jack Approach Water drain that can be sealed to membrane in low spot for water relief 8

9 Sub-Membrane Depressurization (d) Soil Gas Collection can be improved with: Aggregate under membrane Loop of perforated pipe under mat Permeable matting SGC Mat laid under membrane also used under slabs in new construction Radon System Piping Radon System Piping Sealed Ground Cover Sealed Ground Cover Soil Gas Retarder Soil Gas Collector Soil Gas Collector Sub-Membrane Depressurization (e) Fan Sizing Hard to do diagnostics before system installed Experience will dictate Degree of sealing plays large role Similar air flow from SMD as from a sub slab system if edges reasonably sealed. 9

10 Sumps and Drains Closure of open sump (interior) and exhaust to outside should be one of first approaches. Open drains should be fitted with Duck bill traps Mechanical flappers Water traps Using Sump and Drainage Systems (a) Sealing Sealing interior sump can help but will not prevent radon from entering via other openings Connecting ASD to drains Very effective in reducing radon from sump and other foundation openings. Can also beneficially impact hollow block walls 10

11 Using Sump and Drainage Systems (b) Sump Covers Bear weight of 70 Kg (150#) person Fasten to floor Seal with gasket or silicone (needs to be removable) Insure water drainage not interfered with. Label Using Sump and Drainage Systems (c) Floor Drains If drain to subgrade install drain traps If drain to sump Insure 6 inch deep water trap, or Install drain traps If water on floor drains to sump Insure cover is flush with floor Drain trap installed on cover Investigate other drains A/C condensate drains Ice makers, softeners, etc. Reducing Radon Levels in Existing Homes: A Canadian Guide for Professional Contractors

12 Using Sump and Drainage Systems (d) Fan Sizing Hard to do diagnostics before system installed Can temporarily install sump lid and connect vacuum cleaner or radon fan Drill pilot holes to determine effective area These are highly successful systems Degree of sealing plays large role Similar air flow from DTD as from a sub slab system if slab is reasonably sealed. Systems that create more than 250 Pa (1 inch) W.C. may pull water through trapped drains Using Exterior Perimeter Drains (a) Impact Area HC Guidance suggests full loop is optimal Be careful of downspout and window well connections to drain! Foundation Drains Plan View Plan View Two Drain Discharges One Drain Discharge Slope of Lot (Down) 12

13 Using Exterior Perimeter Drains (b) Weeping Discharge (Soakaway) If water drains by gravity off hillside open end must be modified to reduce air flow into system. U-Trap Locate below frostline Full size Flapper (Backwater valve) Preferred Using Exterior Perimeter Drains (c) Fan Sizing Diagnostics before installation Can connect vacuum cleaner to soakaway Drill pilot holes to determine effective area These are highly successful systems Similar air flow from DTD as from a sub slab system if slab is reasonably sealed. Watch for downspout and window well drain connections to exterior drain. Don t connect fan directly to soakaway - Connect to drain at house 13

14 Using Exterior Perimeter Drains (d) Fan Location HC Guidance allows fan to be below grade This is not allowed in U.S. This can decrease freezing of moisture in fan housing and piping Tips: Put in housing made for direct burial Insure bottom drains Insulated cover Use electrical fan performance indicator Reducing Radon Levels in Existing Homes: A Canadian Guide for Professional Contractors ASD Fan and Piping Installation Due to cold climate challenges - HC Guidance allows for different fan and discharge locations Item Canada U.S. Fan location Inside building envelope Outside of building envelope ASD discharge 30 cm or more above grade Above Roof Fan below grade Allowed Not allowed Piping runs and fan in cold spaces below 8 0 C Exterior fan location Insulate to reduce condensate Not recommended in cold climates even if insulated Recommended in cold spaces Not required Condensation occurs at temperatures below +8 0 C Freezing occurs at 0 0 C 14

15 ASD Fan Speed Controller HC Guidance suggests use of variable speed fan controller for ASD Fan Adjust fan speed as a function of stack effect Lower speed in summer than winter Install with continuous monitor that displays short-term radon averages to allow for adjustment. System Routing Fans can be indoors Fans to be vertical Fan can be in attic Consistent with U.S. Insulate fan and piping in attic to reduce condensation Photo: Radon West Ltd. 15

16 ASD Discharge Install like combustion appliance vent CSA-B149.1 Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code Criteria Distance Distance Above grade 30 cm 12 in From any window (operable or not) 30 cm 12 in Building corners (inside or outside) 30 cm 12 in Under porch (occupied area) 30 cm below porch/deck 12 in Above sidewalk, driveway on public property* 2.13 meters 7 feet Passive mechanical vents 30 cm 12 in Mechanical air supply intake 7.83 meters 6 feet * A vent shall not terminate directly above a sidewalk or paved driveway that is located between two single family dwellings and serves both dwellings. Discharge Protection Install screen No rain cap! Slope discharge down to help drain out condensate Photos Courtesy of : Radon West Ltd. 16

17 Interior Routing Interior routing allowed Consistent with U.S. Fan and piping to be insulated if located or routed through cold spaces No rain cap Varmint guard 36 inches 24 inches No - Rain Cap Yes - Varmint Guard Supports J-Box Insulate Condensate By Pass If fan must be located outdoors Insulate and protect Example: Below grade perimeter drain connection Install condensate bypass Collects water above fan and bypasses to suction Insulated condensate line 17

18 Vent Pipe Parameter Spec Wall thickness Schedule 40* STD Minimum pipe size 75 mm (3 inch) Installation Guidance Plumbing Code Do block access areas for maintenance * Thinner wall pipe (Sch. 20) is allowed in areas where pipe is unlikely to be damaged Avoid Condensate Accumulation No traps in pipe Slope pipe back to collection point Condensate should flow YES! NO! back to suction point Pipe Size Recommended Slopes (Gradients) Air Velocity 10 L/s Air Velocity 25 L/s 75 mm 1/50 1/30 1/8 100 mm 1/100 1/50 1/30 Air Velocity 50 L/s Example: 1/50 = 1 cm drop for every cm of horizontal run Note: Air and water going in opposite directions therefore gradient increases as air velocity increases 18

19 Multiple Foundations If air flows are significantly different, install damper Install damper on highest air flow side Depressurization System to Common Fan First Floor Crawl Tee Crawl Slab Slab Basement Stem Wall CVC c Electrical for ASD Fan Disconnect or plug within eyesight of fan Components to be CSA or UL listed Exterior Fan Locations: Run in conduit Connect to integral junction box on fan Wiring should not be routed through radon vent pipe or HVAC ductwork Follow local codes Permanent Wiring: Electrical Inspection 19

20 Building Code Other Codes Pull permits and arrange inspections as required Fire Code Fire collars when routing pipe through occupancy separations (fire walls) Maintain proper separation from hot surfaces (flues) Some codes may require special treatment of membranes Locate ASD system discharge similarly to vents for combustion appliances Combustion Appliance Backdraft Test ASD systems can pull additional air from home - especially if gaps in slab or membrane are not fully treated A backdraft test should be completed after installation Canadian Standard CAN/CGSB If appliance backdrafts: Notify building owner Do not activate ASD system until problem corrected Continuously operating CO monitor is recommended as part of any radon mitigation system 20

21 Ventilation Approaches These approaches were covered in detail in the CERTI mitigation course. A few additional details are provided in the HC Guidance Crawlspace Depressurization Reducing Radon Levels in Existing Homes: A Canadian Guide for Professional Contractors Allowed Can increase infiltration of outdoor air Low discharge Heating system must have capacity Floor needs to be sealed Close crawl vents Not recommended if there are combustion appliances in crawlspace 21

22 Pressurization Adding supply air to crawlspace Discouraged Dilutes crawl space radon but pushes radon up into building Can freeze pipes Simply adding air to building Discouraged High heating penalty Can push humid indoor air into shell insulation Mold Commercial buildings - this is often part of controlled fresh air scheme Heat Recovery Ventilators Works more effectively in tight homes. Sizing is same as discussed in CERTI course Canadian Parameters: Parameter Condensate Condensate line via trapped drain Common natural ventilation rate ACH (200 m 3 /hr) Air Intake Minimum 30 cm above ground (12 in.) Separation between supply & exhaust Minimum 1.8 meters between grills Discharge Grills Co-axial intake/discharge vents not recommended Double walled pipes with supply and exhaust in same run & discharge Terminations Vermin screen on supply and exhaust Air flows Balanced Maintenance Annual cleaning 22

23 Sealing Entry Routs Example in HC Guidance Illustrates that an opening in the foundation of 1 cm 2 can account for the entry of radon needed to create 200 Bq/M3 in the home. Floor to wall joints, gaps around plumbing penetrations and floor cracks each can present 100 cm 2 of opening not to mention openings to soil from sumps. Failure to seal more than 99% of any single one of these openings will result in failure. Caulking and Sealing is not a stand alone technique - even in Canada! Caulking and Sealing Covered in base CERTI course Polyurethane Floor to wall joints: 2 cm. width of caulk Caulk all accessible joints Grinding and caulking floor cracks not feasible Sealing openings nearest the suction point has the greatest benefit. 23

24 Health and Safety Plan Employer should have Health and Safety Plan for workers Review with employees annually Acknowledgement by employee Elements (not a full list) General site safety Safe use of tools and equipment Use of personal protective equipment Confined space (crawlspaces) Hazards (a) Asbestos (Not a complete List) Insulation on hot water pipes and ductwork Vermiculite can also contain asbestos If friable asbestos is suspected, do not start work until accredited person determines you can proceed in accordance with asbestos regulations. Friable = crushable by hand 24

25 Respirators Higher efficiency respirators require fitness testing and medical surveillance N95 does not require respirator program Protecting Your Home From Radon A Step by Step Manual for Radon Reduction Negative Air Purifying Requires Respirator Program N95 style Hazards (b) (Not a complete List) Crawlspaces/Attics Confined space Broken glass, nails, discarded chemicals and drugs Rodenticides If large amount of rodent droppings hantavirus concerns exist (see later) Spiders, snakes, critters Additional ventilation for workers 25

26 Hazards (c) Mold (Not a complete List) Found in damp spaces like crawlspaces Avoid contact Wear protective equipment Disposable clothing Gloves N95 respirators Wash hands and other contacted areas with soap and water after removing gloves. If large amounts of mold have specialist team remove prior to initiating work. Hazards (c) Histoplasmosis (Not a complete List) Fungus from bird droppings, chickens and bats Infectious droppings from some mammals Avoid contact and inhalation Disposable clothing wash hands and other contacted surfaces with soap and water N95 respirator 26

27 Hazards (d) Blastomycosis (Not a complete List) Fungus in some soils containing rotting organic material Avoid contact and inhalation Disposable clothing wash hands and other contacted surfaces with soap and water N95 respirator Hazards (e) Hantavirus (Not a complete List) Serious, fatal disease with flu like symptoms Droppings and urine, feces and saliva from infected mice Can be found in attics and crawlspaces If dead mice or droppings are observed Spray area with bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) Place suspected material in plastic bags for disposal Wear disposable clothing, gloves, N95 respirator and goggles Thoroughly wash with soap and water. Engage specialist if large amounts of droppings observed. 27

28 Radiation Exposure This topic was covered in the Canadian Supplement for CERTI s Measurement Course. If you are not familiar with this topic and calculations involved, please review that program. Post-Mitigation Testing This topic was covered in the Canadian Supplement for CERTI s Measurement Course. If you are not familiar with this topic and calculations involved, please review that program. 28

29 Elements of ASTM E Standard Practice for Installing Radon Mitigation Systems in Existing Low-Rise Residential Buildings Full document can be purchased at: Technical Details: ASTM E Some are in conflict with Health Canada Guidance Where conflict HC Guidance and local codes govern Can provide additional details not covered by HC Guidance Worker Health: Follow HC Guidance and Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety Rules Practices: Suggested practices for record keeping and dealing with clients Recognized by National Radon Proficiency Program 29

30 ASTM E General Practices (a) Prior to Starting Work Inform Client of: Nature of work Anticipated use of hazardous solvents or materials Need to ventilate work area MSDS sheets made available to client Conduct visual inspection of property Back drafting If a potential concern contractor should recommend repairs to bring it into compliance ASTM E General Practices (b) Installation Comply with Codes Electrical Components: UL or CSA listed Existing Systems Component replacement Replacement to be in compliance with ASTM E2121 Non altered or repaired components not in compliance Not a requirement to upgrade untouched portions of system Report non compliance to client in writing 30

31 ASTM E General Practices (c) Design Design as permanent and integral system Avoid creation of other health / safety hazards Backdrafting Obstruction of exits, normal pathways, maintenance access Degradation of fire safety, e.g. passage through fire walls Disturbance of asbestos Other concerns: Energy costs, aesthetics, noise, durability, installation cost ASTM E Labels System Description Label Legible from 1 meter (3 ft.) Radon Reduction System Periodic Testing Advisory Installer name and contact information Pipe labels On each floor pipe is visible Radon Reduction System Power Panel Label circuit system is powered from Membrane Sump 31

32 ASTM E Client Documentation Information to be provided to client after installation: Copies of contracts and warranties Description of system including operating principals Operating procedures Mechanical and electrical components Manufacturer s warranties Interpretation of performance indicator including suggested actions to be taken Contact information of installer Name, address and phone number ASTM E Records Records of Retention Duration Records of all mitigation work done 3 years, or Duration of warranty if longer than 3 years Health and Safety Records 20 years including radon exposure logs 32

33 Elements of ASTM 1465 Standard Practice for Radon Control Options for the Design and Construction of New Low-Rise Residential Buildings Requires testing prior to occupation Active fan added if results > 4.0 or buyers expectation Provides details on: Active fan routing Allows for routing through garages and cold spaces Soil collector options Full document can be purchased at: Basic Concept and Terms Slab Crawlspace Radon System piping thru roof Radon System piping thru roof Cold joint or Caulk Sealed penetrations Ground Cover Soil gas retarder Sealed Ground Cover Gas permeable layer Soil Gas Collector Soil gas retarder Soil gas collector 33

34 Treat All Areas within Footprint ASTM 1465 Basement slabs Slab-on-grade Crawlspaces Garages* Logical Interpretation Enclosed patios Utility rooms Wine cellars Enclosed entry ways Storage vaults * Per ASTM Appendix F of IRC does not require treatment of garage Ground Cover Caps the top of the gas permeable layer Concrete Floors Concrete floor serves as cap or Cover Earthen areas Crawlspaces Membrane Sealed seams, sealed penetrations, sealed edges to walls Minimum: 6 mil poly or 3 mil high density Concrete If storage or light traffic planned: 2 inch rat slab If equipment in crawlspace: Full 3 ½ inch slab 34

35 Areas of High Permeability in Underlying Soil Seal Bottom of Gas Permeable Layer GPL Cover Slab or Membrane in crawlspace Membrane under gas permeable layer Porous Native Soils Karst Decomposed granite Blasting Plastic under gas permeable layer Blocks air from below Membrane under gas permeable layer not needed in cases where native soils are impermeable Maintaining Lateral Flow in Gas Permeable Layer Horizontal runs of utility pipes and conduits (water, sewer, electric, phone, TV and so forth) and other barriers that restrict air flow to any part of the gas permeable membrane shall be avoided. (Section ASTM 1465) Exception: If interior perimeter drain is used as the soil gas collector See next slide 35

36 Sub-Slab Utility Lines Soil gas collector Seal Soil gas retarder Minimum 4 -inch OK Soil gas collector Seal Soil gas retarder Minimum 4 -inch Not OK * *Per ASTM 1465, allowed in App F of the IRC Maintain full 4-inch area for soil gas movement Alternative to Trenching Utility Lines* Soil Gas Collector Plan View If utility line does not completely cut-off portion of sub-grade Maintain minimum of 2 feet of clearance around utility line Sewer or utility lines * Personal recommendation of D. L. Kladder NO Section Isolated 36

37 Soil Gas Retarder Slab: Plastic sheet between bottom of concrete and Gas permeable Layer Keeps concrete from entering GPL Helps bridge future slab cracks Crawlspace Plastic sheet on top of soil, with Soil gas Collector & Membrane above it Protects membrane Sealing No sealing required seal provided by Ground Cover Seams overlapped 12 inches Installed as required for moisture barrier. Soil Gas Retarder Soil Gas Retarder Gas Permeable Layer (GPL) - Slabs Specification depends upon soil gas collector design Four types Common aspects: 100% coverage of footprint Aggregate with low fines when used Located under Soil Gas Retarder 37

38 Slabs Type I Gas Permeable Layer Larger Rock Less Perforated Pipe Radon riser 4-inch diameter soil gas collector Minimum 20 feet long Open ends Radon Riser Slab Soil gas retarder 4 inch layer washed stone #4 (1 to 1½ inch) 4-inch diameter soil gas collector Type I Layout Conform to footprint CVC At least 24 inches from interior footing drains* Riser Directly on pipe, or Offset to wall with non-perforated 4-inch * D.L. Kladder recommendation-assumes interior drain not used as soil gas collector 38

39 Type I Allowing for Lateral Air Flow Post and Beam Foundation with Grade Beam Riser Do not draw air from one perforated pipe through another to a riser Slabs Type II Gas Permeable Layer Moderate Sized Rock - Loop of Perforated Pipe Radon Riser 4-inch diameter soil gas collector Loop of perforated pipe Radon Riser Slab Soil gas retarder 4 inch layer washed stone #6 (1/2 3/4 inch) 4-inch diameter soil gas collector 39

40 Type II Layout Conform to footprint CVC At least 24 inches from interior footing drains* Riser Directly on pipe, or Offset to wall with non-perforated * D.L. Kladder recommendation-assumes interior drain not used as soil gas collector Slabs Type III Gas Permeable Layer Rock in Trench Loop of Pipe Radon Riser 4-inch diameter soil gas collector Loop of perforated pipe Laidintrench Radon Riser Slab Soil Gas Retarder 4-inch diameter soil gas collector Trench 1 foot wide x 4 inch deep layer washed stone #4 (1 to 1½ inch) 40

41 Perforated Pipe Option: Cross-Overs Riser Garage Grade Beam Pipe Loop Important: when passing under grade beams make sure that perforations of pipe allow drainage Make provisions for pipe to penetrate obstructions. Short lengths laid in trenches Tape ends to keep clear of debris - attach to main loop after grade beam finished Pipe sleeves in intermediate footings. Pass perforated pipe through. Perforated Pipe Option: Riser Tee and Perforated Pipe Same Diameter as Vent pipe. Sch. 40 PVC or ABS Pipe PVC or ABS Pipe Coupling or flexible boot in expansive soils Slab Corrugated, Perforated Polyethylene pipe 8 stub of 4 PVC Pipe 41

42 Slabs Type IV Gas Permeable Layer Drain Mat No Aggregate Other than Normal Radon Riser Radon Riser Slab Soil gas retarder 12 in. x 1 in. drain mat Rectilinear loop Drain Mat (Proprietary Mat) CVC Laid on subgrade, with vapor retarder between it and bottom of slab More expensive Offset by: Easier installation No special aggregate 42

43 Mat Option: Layout Riser Garage Grade Beam Mat 6000 Tee and mat to have same cross-sectional free flow area as vent pipe. Installation of Mat Roll out Mat Make corners Place under re-bar Install Riser Photos: Compliments of Professional Discount Supply Pour concrete on top of mat Finish Slab 43

44 Cross-Overs Plan for mat to cross through barriers Through intermediate foundation walls Under grade beams Insure that concrete does not enter mat and that water can drain into sub-grade! Mat laid over footing prior to pouring of post-tension slab. Mat being routed under intermediate foundation wall and to another slab level Crawlspaces 44

45 Ground Cover for Crawlspaces Earthen Areas Case A - No Traffic or Storage Sealed * ASTM Radon System Piping thru roof Ground Cover Soil gas retarder Soil Gas collector No traffic or storage Sealed Ground Cover membrane 6 mil normal 3 mil high density Vapor barrier beneath membrane* Additional sheet over ground cover membrane for occasional traffic area. Soil Gas Collector Crawlspace* If no aggregate added Loop If 4-inch layer of aggregate added 20 foot length allowed *ASTM 1465, not stipulated in App. F of IRC 4-inch layer of aggregate below membrane No aggregate added under membrane 45

46 Ground Cover for Crawlspaces Earthen Areas Case B & C - Planned Traffic & Storage Radon System Piping thru roof Poured slab Soil gas retarder Soil Gas Collector Use Type I, III, III or IV for slab design Planned traffic & Storage Poured slab Equipment in crawl water heaters, furnace, etc 3 ½ inch slab Storage and traffic expected 2 inch rat slab and Places to Seal at Sumps Soil retarder to base of sump before slab pour Seal Lid Penetrations Discharge pipe Electrical cord Caulk Base Label Lid Advising: Part of radon system Replace if removed Turn off fan if active system Gasket on Lid Bolt Down Lid 46

47 Radon Vent Pipe System Connected after sub-grade system installed Pipe cannot be trapped Provide space in chases Support at each floor level Discharge through roof behind ridge CVC Post Construction Testing and System Disclosure The proposed methods are prescriptive - not performance based. Testing is better performed after occupation. The need for further reductions is decision by occupant. Disclosure should be made to occupant (and future occupant) of systems existence and need to test to verify efficacy. 47

48 Passive: Need to test Documentation to Buyer?? Do not assume radon levels are acceptable Who activates? Active Monitor / Indicator & retest Fan to run continuously Elements that impact performance Sump lid Crawlspace membrane Active System Operation and Maintenance Fan in attic Runs continuously (60 watt) No lubrication or maintenance required Life: years Replacement cost: $150 Performance Indicator Shows vacuum in system Not a radon monitor Membrane tape for large tears in crawlspace barrier Monitor Confirms Vacuum 48

49 Additional Resources and Updates Organization URL Health Canada Center for Environmental Research and Technology, Inc. Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program If you are viewing this program as part of a CERTI course be sure to check out the resource section for additional tools and resources Center for Environmental Research and Technology, Inc