What is a key condition for the accurate placement of short-term radon testing devices?

The placement of short-term radon testing devices is critical for obtaining accurate results, and positioning them away from walls is essential for this purpose. When devices are situated too close to walls, they may not adequately capture the air that reflects the overall radon levels in the room. Walls can create zones of lower air circulation, leading to localized readings that may not represent the average radon concentration in the space. By placing the devices away from walls, you ensure they are in a location where they can accurately measure the air in the room, allowing for a more reliable assessment of radon levels.

Other placement options, such as near windows, outdoors, or specifically in the basement, can lead to misleading results due to factors like drafts, external air influences, or localized concentrations that do not reflect the overall indoor environment. Thus, the best practice is to position the testing devices in open areas, away from any obstructions, to achieve an accurate reading of radon levels in a specific space.