Radon
- Sources
- Impacts
- Testing
Sources of Radon (Rn)
Radon is a colourless, odourless radioactive gas formed from the decay of naturally-occurring uranium found in all rocks and soils. The quantity of uranium is variable, dependant on the rock type. As a result, radon exposure is largely dependent on where you live in the UK (however building construction materials and ventilation are also a determining factor). The UK government's official radon map is extremely useful to determine if you live in an area of high radon emissions.
Radon can accumulate in indoor spaces, particularly basements, seeping into the building through cracks and porous floors. Mines and caves, deep underground, are also areas where there may be higher radon emissions. Although rare, ground water, certain building materials, and burning fossil fuels can also emit radon gas. Radon is one of the most common sources of radioactive exposure that people may be exposed to in their daily lives. It is typical to measure radon emissions by radioactivity (becquerels per cubic metre of air; Bq m-3) rather than weight because its weight is not directly tied to the harmful radiation that it can emit, which is the greater concern.
Typical Sources of Rn
- Soil and Rock
- Groundwater
- Some Building Materials
- Burning of Fossil Fuels
Impacts of Radon (Rn)
Radon is a highly carcinogenic element which can have severe effects on the lungs. Prolonged exposure is one of the leading causes of lung cancer with between 3-14% of all cases being attributed to radon exposure. Smokers may be particularly vulnerable to radon exposure (at an additional 25 times risk) due to their already present vulnerability to lung cancer development. Research so far has only associated radon with the development of lung cancer as a potential health concern, however there is also some preliminary research which suggests that radon may also have neurotoxic effects.
Common Impacts of Rn
- Lung Cancer
- Neurotoxic Effects
Testing for Radon (Rn)
Testing for Radon can be done using detection monitors, which are set in an environment for 3 months and then returned to a lab for analysis. Use of Aranet air sensors can also provide continuous readings of Radon radiation.- Radon Detection Monitors
- Radon Air Sensors
Limits
When radon levels in the workplace exceed 300 Bq/m³ as an annual average, employers are required to take action under the Ionising Radiation Regulations 2017 and reduce this. For domestic homes a guideline limit of 200 Bq m-3 is recommended by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
- The Ionising Radiation Regulations 2017 Limit is less than 300 Bq/m³
- The UKHSA Guideline Limit is 200 Bq/m³
- For levels in excess of 1000 Bq m-3 you may wish to contact UKHSA for advice
Radon FAQs
How Do I Remove Radon From My Indoor Air? ↓
The ground is the main origin of radon exposure. There are few distinctive measures to combat this. A radon sump is essentially a pipe housed under the floor which collects radon gas and vents it outside the building. It can be an invasive procedure as space has to be excavated. You can dilute radon gas by having a positive ventilation system which brings fresh outdoor air into the home. The benefit of this may be subject to local outdoor air quality however. Use of natural and active underfloor ventilation systems can also reduce radon concentrations.
Can I Perceive Radon? ↓
No, radon is a colourless and odourless. Symptoms resultant of continuous radiation exposure can take decades to develop.
What UK Legislation Relates To Rn? ↓
Ionising Radiation Regulations 2017; UKHSA
What Environments Are Typical For Radon Exposure? ↓
Where Can I Find More Information On Radon And Its Remediation ↓
The UKHSA is a brilliant GOV organisation which provides help and information about UK Radon Exposure.
Why Choose ARM?
Radon is a radioactive gas with serious long-term health effects. ARM provides expert testing, advice, and mitigation guidance.
We’re SafeContractor certified and proud BESA members. With Adam Taylor – Chair of BESA’s Indoor Air Quality Group – leading our work, we offer trusted assessments and solutions to keep your building and its occupants safe and legally compliant.
