When conducting testing for radon, what is considered a closed-building condition?

A closed-building condition is essential for accurate radon testing because it helps ensure that external factors do not influence the radon levels measured inside the building. This condition is defined by keeping all windows and doors completely closed for a specified period before and during the testing process. This allows for an accurate representation of the radon levels in the indoor environment, eliminating variable factors such as outdoor air exchange that could dilute or concentrate radon measurements.

Keeping windows and doors closed means that the indoor atmosphere remains stable, reflecting the natural radon accumulation from the soil and building materials. This consistency is crucial for obtaining reliable data that can inform health assessments and necessary remediation efforts.

When doors and windows are open, or if the building is under remodeling, airflow dynamics change, potentially leading to inaccurate or inconsistent test results. Therefore, the strict adherence to a closed-building condition is fundamental in radon measurement protocols.