Radon

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