If you're like most people, you probably haven't thought much about radon. But this colourless, odourless gas can be present in your home without you even knowing it. And if you don't take steps to test for radon and remove it, it can pose a serious health risk to you and your family.
Radon is a radioactive gas that results from the natural decay of uranium and radium found in nearly all rocks and soils. It's found naturally in soil, rocks, and water. And when radon seeps into your home or workplace, it can build up to dangerous levels.
There's no way to tell if radon is present in your home or workplace without testing for it. But there are some things that can increase your risk of radon exposure. For example, if your home is built on soil with a high radon content, or if there's already radon in the air of your home, you're more likely to be exposed to it.
If you're concerned about radon, the best thing to do is to get your home or building tested. Radon test kits are available from our online shop here, and they're very easy to use. Once you have your results, if levels are elevated, you can take steps to remove radon from your home if necessary and Radon Protection UK can give you a step-by-step radon mitigation plan on the best course of radon remedial action.
Don't wait to take action on radon. Test your home today and protect yourself and your family from this invisible danger.
WHAT DOES A RADON GAS TEST SHOW?
A radon gas test kit can show you how much radon is present in your home. It's also the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers.
The amount of radon in your home is measured in becquerels (Bq). The becquerel is a unit of measurement that represents the amount of radiation emitted by one atom in a material.
If your home has a high level of radon, you may need to install a radon mitigation system. This system will help to reduce the amount of radon gas in your home and make it safer for you and your family.
WHAT IS A SAFE LEVEL OF RADON IN HOMES?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on a number of factors, including the type of property, its location and the occupancy level. However, the UK government has set a target level of 200 Becquerels per metre cubed (Bq/m3) for existing properties and new buildings. The UK Health Security Agency (formerly PHE) recommends that action should be taken to reduce levels above this in existing buildings.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF EXPOSURE TO HIGH LEVELS OF RADON?
Radon exposure can cause a number of different health problems, including lung cancer.
· Radon increases your risk of lung cancer.
· The higher the radon, the longer the exposure, the greater the risk.
· Radon causes over 1,100 deaths from lung cancer each year in the UK.
· The risk from radon is higher if the person is an ex-smoker and significantly greater for current smokers.
If you have been exposed to high levels of radon and are experiencing any health issues, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Radon exposure is a serious health hazard and should be taken seriously.
HOW CAN I REDUCE THE LEVEL OF RADON IN MY HOUSE?
There are a few things you can do to reduce radon in your house:
· Install a radon mitigation system. This will help to reduce the amount of radon that enters your home.
· Seal any cracks or gaps in your home’s foundation. This will help to prevent radon from entering your home.
· Make sure that all ventilation fans in your home are properly vented to the outside. This will help to remove radon from your home.
· Install a positive input ventilation unit - A (PIV), is an effective method of reducing indoor radon concentrations.
WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS FOR RADON MITIGATION?
Radon mitigation systems are designed to reduce the levels of radon gas in your home. There are many different types of radon mitigation systems, and the type that is best for your home will depend on a number of factors. Here is a look at some of the most common types of radon mitigation systems:
1. PASSIVE RADON MITIGATION SYSTEMS
Passive radon mitigation systems rely on natural ventilation to reduce the levels of radon gas in your home. These systems typically consist of a vent pipe that runs from the basement to the roof, allowing radon gas to escape from the home. Passive radon mitigation systems are usually less expensive than active systems, but they may not be as effective in homes with high levels of radon gas.
2. ACTIVE RADON MITIGATION SYSTEMS
Active radon mitigation systems use fans to draw radon gas out of the home and vent it to the outside. These systems are more effective than passive systems, but they can be more expensive to install and operate.
3. SUB-SLAB DEPRESSURISATION SYSTEMS
Sub-slab depressurization systems (SSDS) are designed to reduce the levels of radon gas in your home by creating a negative pressure beneath the foundation slab. This negative pressure prevents radon gas from seeping into the home from the soil. SSDS are typically installed by a professional, such as Radon Protection UK and they can be expensive to operate.
WHICH RADON MITIGATION SYSTEM IS RIGHT FOR MY HOME?
The type of radon mitigation system that is best for your home will depend on a number of factors, including the levels of radon gas in your home, the type of construction of your home, and your budget. If you are not sure which radon mitigation system is right for your home, you should contact a professional to have your home tested for radon gas or request a radon survey. Once you know the levels of radon gas in your home, you can work with a professional to choose the best radon mitigation system for your needs.
If you have concerns about the level of radon in your property then please get in touch with us at Radon Protection UK where you can discuss a course of action with one of our experts.