Is 46 hours acceptable for the minimum duration of a short-term radon test?

The minimum duration for a short-term radon test is important for ensuring accurate measurement of radon levels in a dwelling. A test duration of 46 hours can be considered acceptable depending on the protocols established by the testing guidelines. Most standard guidelines recommend a minimum duration of 48 hours for short-term tests to provide reliable results. However, there are circumstances where a measurement period shorter than 48 hours may be acceptable, particularly if the testing device is calibrated or designed specifically for shorter testing periods, or when specific protocols allow for deviations under certain conditions.

In general, while the 48-hour guideline is a standard, there can be flexibility based on the testing method and device used, which is why understanding the context and operational guidelines of the specific radon measurement devices is critical. Therefore, recognizing that 46 hours is just shy of the standard, but potentially acceptable under specific testing scenarios, underlines the importance of adhering to the guidelines provided by authorities such as the EPA or professional radon measurement organizations.