Adopt a RRNC Code or Standard

Your municipality, county, or state can choose to adopt a code (or standard) that covers radon-resistant new construction, authored by one of several organizations. For details on national radon standards, or standards that relate to new homes in your area, visit the Web sites of the three organizations listed below.

1. ASTM International: www.astm.org
       (replaces EPA's previous Model Building Techniques and Standards)

For the free “scope” section of ASTM’s “ACTIVE STANDARD”: E1465-08 Standard Practice for Radon Control Options for the Design and Construction of New Low-Rise Residential Buildings, go to: www.astm.org

While following any of the three primary codes that include radon resistant construction is sufficient to qualify for the Directory of Radon Builders, EPA believes that ASTM E1465-08 has some advantages over the other codes. Using ASTM E1465-08:

• Allows more flexibility of installation
• Provides a more effective radon reduction system
• Increases the life expectancy and durability of mechanical equipment
• Guarantees results from required testing

2. The International Code Council (ICC): www.iccsafe.org/

Here you can find the International Residential Code (IRC), which includes Appendix F−Radon Control Methods. The code can also be purchased - www.internationalcodes.net

3. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA): www.nfpa.org

The NFPA codes and standards are available in read-only format on line; use this link to view NFPA 5000 for free - www.nfpa.org

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Tools You Can Use

Code Adoption: The Process and Examples of Successful Code Adoptions

Step 1 - Who initiates the code adoption process?

A member of the local building department or an elected member of the town council proposes adopting the updated or new version of a building code that governs new homes, including radon-resistant new construction.

or

A concerned citizen launches the process by bringing the need for a code that mandates radon-resistant new construction to the attention of elected or appointed officials in the jurisdiction.

Step 1 is illustrated by Manhattan, KS - Code Adoption in Manhattan, KS (PDF) (1 page, 13 K, about PDF)

Step 2 - Community Education and Buy-in from Stakeholders

The codes committee, composed of government officials, decides on a process for reviewing new or revised building codes. This may involve meeting with and organizing workshops for builders and other interested parties. Including stakeholders in the education and discussion process early on is vital to the successful adoption of a new code. These parties include:

1. Local code officials from the building department
2. Local builders
3. The mayor
4. Government representatives
5. Representatives from the code organization (ICC, ASTM, or NFPA)
6. Local health officials
7. Prospective new home buyers
8. Home inspectors

Step 2 is illustrated by the examples of Successful RRNC Code Adoption listed below.

Step 3 - Adoption by Local Jurisdiction

The codes committee, or the council member supporting the new or revised code, recommends adoption to the town council. The codes, including the sections on radon-resistant new construction, are discussed in a public meeting before the council makes a final decision (votes).

Examples of Successful RRNC Code Adoptions include:

• Code Adoption in Decatur, AL (PDF) (1 page, 14 K)
• Code Adoption in Kane County, IL (PDF) (1 page, 13 K)
• Code Adoption in Manhattan, KS (PDF) (1 page, 13 K)
• Code Adoption in Yorkville, IL (PDF) (1 page, 14 K)