Radon Test Detects Very High Levels in Andover Town Hall

Building to be closed temporarily for mitigation efforts

By Kimberley Brown Edelmann

We have very recently become aware of a radon issue in the Town Offices and Library.  Results of a charcoal test kit indicated that we have a radon level of 32.0 pCi/L with a margin of error of +/- 1.6 pCi/L in the basement.  We conducted additional testing in the office areas upstairs using an Airthings Corentium Home Radon Detector and again saw high readings.

We are bringing in professional radon mitigation contractors to measure and confirm the radon issue and to provide guidance for mitigation.  We already have been told we will need to seal several large cracks in the basement floor through which radon can seep into the building.

Long term mitigation may involve adding a radon vent pipe system to the building.
The Select Board and office staff discussed the situation at length and have decided that for the well being of our staff and the public, we will temporarily close the Town Offices.  Maybe some will feel we are acting with an overabundance of caution, but we’d rather be safe today than sorry tomorrow.  We are working to ensure that we will still provide full municipal services to the public.

We will provide updates as we move forward through this issue.  Meanwhile, I ask for your patience and understanding as we navigate this challenging situation. Thank you, kindly.