The district has received inquiries regarding documented radon levels at existing schools, particularly those located adjacent to construction sites. As stated previously, current scientific understanding and health assessments indicate that construction activities on one property do not increase radon levels on adjacent properties. Based on a consultation with the Washtenaw County Environmental Health division, the district has tested Scarlett Middle School.
Testing was initiated in November and December, with tests conducted during normal school operations; the results have been posted on the Assessments & Surveys web page, as they become available.
Scarlett Middle School Testing Results click here to view the latest report
- Arch Environmental (the district’s environmental health and safety consultant) placed 76 devices in accordance with the guidance document titled “Radon Measurements in Schools, Revised Edition (EPA 402-R-92-014, July 1993)” published by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
- In the areas that tested above 4.0pCi/L, AAPS and its consultants have planned corrective measures per EPA recommendations and ANSI/AARST 2023 guidelines.
- Since the latest testing, the building has been operating in an “Enhanced Ventilation Mode,” increasing fresh air volumes and overall air changes in order to support the highest quality indoor environment for our students and staff. Building occupied timing and fresh air intake was immediately increased.
- Increasing fresh air ventilation and air changes can support improvements to air quality.
- Additional mitigation measures, aligned with the EPA and ANSI/AARST guidelines and recommended best practices are being implemented.
- Follow up testing will be conducted after 30 days.
- The school building will remain in an enhanced ventilation mode until testing verifies all occupied spaces meet target levels and then continue for the foreseeable future as necessary.
- The district may request periodic monitoring as appropriate, as the building continues to be occupied, with reports continuing to be posted on the website www.a2schoolsbond.org Assessments & Surveys page.
The school district continues to seek the guidance of Washtenaw County’s Environmental Health division. More information can be found at https://www.washtenaw.org/1842/Radon.
Information for students has been prepared by the EPA and can be found here: EPA Radon Superheroes.