Fears that drywall imported from China may be radioactive—in addition to being smelly and corrosive—were allayed recently when testing conducted by federal and state agencies found no radiation safety risk to families living in affected homes.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, federal and state agency radiation laboratories analyzed multiple samples of drywall obtained by the CPSC and the Florida Department of Health. Of the 21 samples tested, 17 were obtained by the CPSC from manufacturers and suppliers in multiple states, and four were obtained by the Florida health department from homes exhibiting copper corrosion, odors and occupant complaints. Results of the testing showed levels that do not pose a radiation safety risk

“Federal and state scientists believe that imported and domestically-manufactured drywall associated with these samples does not pose a radiological concern to consumers,” the CPSC said in a news release. .
 
While the news was welcome, it still leaves hundreds of homeowners who are living in tainted homes without recourse. But the CPSC reports that intensive investigative efforts are continuing on multiple tracks.

The agency is testing the air in 50 homes in Florida, Louisiana, Virginia, Alabama and Mississippi. In each state, the agency is gathering numerous samples from homes that contain drywall produced in China, and, for comparative purposes, from homes constructed with U.S.‐made drywall in which no problems have been reported. Federal and state agencies will evaluate the test results as part of assessing potential health or safety risks to building occupants.

When the results of the air quality tests are in, we'll report about them here. In the meantime, the CPSC is posting updates in its Drywall Information Center.