ABOUT RADON IN UTAH
The Bad News
UTAH IS A HOTBED FOR RADON 
​Two conditions prevalent in Utah increase the probability of exposure to high levels of radon:  1) Uranium is found in nearly all rock and soil in the state. As a result, most Utah soil is deemed to have a moderate to high radon hazard potential; and 2) Many structures have been or will be built on those soils, most have/will have multiple entry points for radon gas and, due to Utah’s cold winter climate, most are or will be tightly constructed which can cause radon to be trapped in the structure.
Courtesy Utah Geological Survey
Between 1973 and 2019, there were approximately 6278 fatalities in Utah attributable to lung cancer caused by radon gas (based on World Health Organization general estimate that 14% - 25% of lung cancer cases are attributable to radon gas).

​Thousands of fatalities before 1973 from radon gas are likely as well. To date, the number of lung cancer fatalities caused by radon gas make radon gas Utah’s most deadly geologic hazard.
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​Geologic conditions directly affect indoor radon gas concentrations; however, indoor radon gas concentrations are highly dependent on building construction methods. Radon comes from the natural decay of uranium which is found in nearly all rock and soil. When geologic and building conditions are favorable, the potential for high indoor levels of radon gas increases.
Nearly two thirds of soil in Utah contains high to extremely high levels of radon.
The Good News
  • ​​You can test for radon. Testing is the only way to know if you and your family are at risk from radon. EPA and the Surgeon General recommend testing all homes below the third floor for radon.  EPA also recommends testing in schools. Testing is inexpensive and easy. 
  • A radon problem is fixable. Radon reduction systems work and they are not too costly. Some radon reduction systems can reduce radon levels in your home by up to 99%. Even very high levels can be reduced to acceptable levels.
The Better News
  • You can test your home on your own or hire a certified radon tester to do so. If you choose to test on your own, inexpensive test kits are available here.
  • Utah is fortunate to have a strong cadre of well trained, certified radon professionals. While the Utah Radon Coalition highly recommends you use a certified professional, we do not endorse a particular professional. You can find a list of certified radon measurers and mitigators in your area here.
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