RMS RMS Quality & Compliance 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Under EPA guidelines, what is the maximum acceptable radon level in a home before mitigation is strongly recommended?
- 2 pCi/L
- 4 pCi/L (Correct answer)
- 8 pCi/L
- 10 pCi/L
Correct answer: 4 pCi/L
The EPA recommends mitigation when radon levels are at or above 4 pCi/L.
Question 2: A post-mitigation test result shows 3.8 pCi/L. What is the most appropriate next step?
- Issue a clearance certificate immediately
- Discuss system optimization options with the homeowner (Correct answer)
- Declare the system fully compliant
- Remove the mitigation system
Correct answer: Discuss system optimization options with the homeowner
At 3.8 pCi/L the level is just below the EPA action level but still above the 2 pCi/L goal, so optimization should be discussed.
Question 3: Which organization administers the most widely recognized RMS certification program in the United States?
- EPA
- AARST-NRPP (Correct answer)
- OSHA
- ASTM International
Correct answer: AARST-NRPP
AARST-NRPP (National Radon Proficiency Program) is the primary certifying body for radon mitigators in the U.S.
Question 4: How often must a certified RMS renew their NRPP certification?
- Every 1 year
- Every 2 years
- Every 3 years (Correct answer)
- Every 5 years
Correct answer: Every 3 years
NRPP requires certified professionals to renew every 3 years with continuing education credits.
Question 5: Which document must an RMS provide to a homeowner upon system installation to meet EPA standards of practice?
- Building permit only
- A written system description and post-mitigation test protocol (Correct answer)
- A tax invoice
- An air quality report from OSHA
Correct answer: A written system description and post-mitigation test protocol
EPA standards require a written system description and guidance on post-mitigation testing to be provided to the homeowner.
Question 6: What is the primary purpose of the diagnostic assessment performed before designing a radon mitigation system?
- To estimate contractor profit margin
- To determine the appropriate sub-slab communication and entry points (Correct answer)
- To satisfy local permit requirements only
- To identify asbestos in the home
Correct answer: To determine the appropriate sub-slab communication and entry points
Diagnostic testing assesses sub-slab communication and soil conditions to guide effective system design.
Question 7: A state requires radon contractors to carry general liability insurance with a minimum of $300,000 per occurrence. An RMS carries only $250,000. What is their compliance status?
- Compliant, because federal guidelines override state rules
- Non-compliant with state requirements (Correct answer)
- Compliant if they have NRPP certification
- Non-compliant only if a claim is filed
Correct answer: Non-compliant with state requirements
State licensing requirements are mandatory and take precedence; carrying less than the required minimum renders the contractor non-compliant.
Under EPA guidelines, what is the maximum acceptable radon level in a home before mitigation is strongly recommended?