Radon at home and in the workplace
Radon is a colourless, odourless radioactive gas formed by the radioactive decay of small amounts of uranium that occur naturally in rocks and soils.
Many buildings contain radon but the levels are usually low and the risk to health is small.
How can I check if I am at risk?
The darker areas on the UKradon map (external website) show where the levels are more likely to be higher. Not all buildings, even in the darkest areas, have high levels but you can order a test pack to measure the level of radon gas in your workplace (external website). The test is safe, simple to use and the results are treated confidentially.
What to do if your home has high levels of radon
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has advised that indoor radon above the level of 200 becquerels per cubic metre (Bq m-3) should be reduced.
If you measure higher levels of radon in your home, then you should take action to reduce these levels, sometimes this could involve sealing around loft-hatches or large openings in floors and extra ventilation for the living space.
Find out how to reduce radon levels (external website)
What to do if your workplace has high levels of radon
If a radon level in any part of your workplace exceeds 400 Becquerels per cubic metre (Bq m-3), the employer is obliged to take action and must inform staff of their risk and nominate a responsible member of staff to oversee progress with protection measures.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) recommends a five-point plan for employers with premises in radon Affected Areas:
- Measurement Test for radon on the ground floor and occupied basements
- Surveillance Continue monitoring until remedial action is complete
- Risk assessment Set priorities for action based on radon levels
- Mitigation Complete remedial action within six months
- Maintenance Conduct periodic testing and routine checks
Find out how to reduce radon levels (external website)