Radionuclides in Air and Water: Overview
Radionuclides in air and water are brought directly into our bodies as we breathe and drink. Once there, they may lodge in our lungs or digestive tract and continue to emit radiation directly to living tissue. EPA protects people from these exposures through its regulatory programs to control air emissions and by setting standards for removing radionuclides from drinking water. Through its voluntary programs, EPA encourages homeowners to help protect themselves and their families by testing their homes for radon and mitigating any problems found.
This section describes EPA's National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Radionuclides for each of the source categories identified as emitting significant amounts.
Radon in Air
The radon website contains information about the sources of and potential for exposure to this colorless, cancer-causing gas and how to protect yourself from it.
Radionuclides in Drinking Water
This site describes the occurrence of radionuclides in drinking water sources and provides standards and guidance materials to help the states and water systems comply with them.
provides a brief overview of the radiation protection activities, including air and water, and contact and website information for each of EPA's 10 Regional offices.
This page provides an overview of EPA's national radiation laboratory, as well as contact information and links to its website.