Government Radon Agencies & Resources

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

The EPA is the primary federal agency setting national radon standards and providing scientific guidance. The EPA established the action level of 4.0 pCi/L (picocuries per liter), above which remedial action is recommended. The agency provides free resources, educational materials, and research-backed information about radon health risks and mitigation best practices.

Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Radon Program

The Ohio Department of Health administers Ohio's radon program and oversees professional licensing for radon mitigation contractors and testing specialists. The ODH ensures that professionals working in Ohio meet national certification standards and follow state-approved protocols for testing and mitigation. The department also distributes educational materials and provides guidance to homeowners and healthcare professionals about radon exposure risks.

Free and Low-Cost Test Kits from ODH

The Ohio Department of Health distributes free or heavily subsidized radon test kits to Ohio residents through various channels. These EPA-approved passive test kits are suitable for initial screening of your home's radon levels. To obtain a test kit, contact the ODH Radon Program directly at 614-644-7476 and ask about the availability of free kits in your county or region.

Passive test kits are left in your home for 2-7 days (depending on the type) and then returned to a certified laboratory for analysis. While these kits take longer to produce results than active monitors used by professionals, they provide an affordable initial assessment. If results are above 2.0 pCi/L, a professional follow-up test is recommended before making mitigation decisions.

Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA)

The Ohio EPA's Division of Air Quality develops state air quality regulations and supports radon information dissemination. While the Ohio Department of Health directly administers radon programs, the Ohio EPA provides technical guidance and environmental policy support for radon-related matters. The agency also addresses vapor intrusion issues, which are related to radon and other soil gases.

County Health Departments

Ohio's 88 county health departments are your local resources for radon education, testing assistance, and mitigation referrals. Many county health departments can distribute free test kits, answer questions about radon risks in your specific area, and provide referrals to licensed mitigation professionals. Some counties have implemented radon awareness programs or local testing initiatives.

Your county health department can also provide information about whether your area is in a high-radon zone and may have specific data about radon levels in your community. To find your county health department, contact your county's government offices or search for "[County Name] Ohio Health Department" online. Many departments offer radon testing assistance during National Radon Action Month in January.

State Licensing for Radon Professionals

Ohio requires radon mitigation contractors to be licensed and follow state standards. The Ohio Department of Health verifies that professionals hold appropriate certifications from nationally recognized organizations such as the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (AARST) or the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP). Always verify that any contractor you hire holds current professional certifications.

When hiring a radon professional, ask for proof of certification and verify their credentials directly with the certifying organization. Licensed professionals must follow EPA guidelines for mitigation system design, installation, and testing. The Ohio Department of Health can confirm a contractor's licensing status—call 614-644-7476 if you want to verify credentials before hiring.

National Radon Professional Organizations

Several national organizations maintain credentials and certifications for radon professionals working throughout the United States, including Ohio. These organizations establish standards for testing and mitigation and provide professional development. When hiring a radon contractor, verify they hold certifications from these recognized bodies.

Health and Medical Resources

Beyond environmental agencies, medical organizations provide resources about radon's health impacts. The American Lung Association and American Cancer Society offer evidence-based information about radon and lung cancer risks. The Ohio Department of Health also maintains resources for healthcare providers treating patients concerned about radon exposure.