IEMA offers free training on radon reduction systems for home contractors, code officials

Regulations, proper installation techniques to be discussed

[September 21, 2013]  SPRINGFIELD -- Home contractors and local code officials can learn more about state regulations for radon reduction systems and guidance on proper installation of these systems in new homes at a free training seminar Tuesday in Springfield. The training, hosted by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency's radon program, will be from 3:20 to 5 p.m. at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Hotel.

Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that comes from naturally occurring uranium in the soil. It is recognized as the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., and it's the leading cause of lung cancer for nonsmokers. IEMA and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimate that nearly 1,200 Illinois residents are diagnosed with radon-related lung cancer each year.

The training is being conducted during the National Radon Conference in Springfield Sept. 22-25. Participants in the construction training seminar also will be able to visit the conference's vendor display area and talk with nationwide radon equipment suppliers and vendors before and after the seminar.

While the seminar is free, space is limited, so anyone interested in attending is asked to register by calling the IEMA radon program at 217-782-1325.

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Radon Resistant Construction Seminar
Sept. 24, 3:20-5 p.m.
President Abraham Lincoln Hotel
Freeport Room
701 E. Adams St., Springfield

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For more information about radon, visit the IEMA radon website at www.radon.illinois.gov.

[Text from Illinois Emergency Management Agency file received from the Illinois Office of Communication and Information]