Before conducting a short-term radon test, what is a requirement regarding building conditions?

The requirement for closed building conditions for at least 12 hours before conducting a short-term radon test is critical for obtaining accurate results. Closed building conditions ensure that radon gas can accumulate to levels representative of normal residential occupancy, which is essential for reliable measurements. This means that windows and doors should remain closed during this time to prevent outside air from diluting the radon levels. The goal is to create a stable environment that reflects typical living conditions when the results will be evaluated.

In contrast, if the building is not maintained in closed conditions, fluctuations in radon levels can occur due to outside air entering, leading to potentially misleading results. By adhering to this requirement, testers can ensure that the radon levels detected during the short-term test accurately represent the concentration of radon that occupants might experience, allowing for appropriate health considerations and actions to be taken if high levels of radon are detected.