An inaccurate indication of elevated levels of this radioactive gas can arise from several factors affecting the testing process. These factors include environmental conditions at the time of testing, such as high humidity or drafts, improper sealing of the testing device, or equipment malfunction. Contamination of the testing device with radioactive substances can also lead to an erroneous high reading. For example, if a testing canister is accidentally exposed to a source of naturally occurring radioactive material before or during deployment, the result will likely show a higher concentration than actually present in the air.
Understanding the sources of error is important because mitigation efforts are expensive and potentially unnecessary if initial results are inaccurate. Proper interpretation of test results prevents undue stress and expenditure on remediation efforts. Historically, a lack of awareness of these potential errors has led to unnecessary home improvements and decreased property values based on incorrect information.
