propertECO and Bridgend Council: Providing Safer, Healthier Buildings in South Wales

Background

Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, is a significant health risk in certain buildings, particularly those built in radon-prone areas. It can enter homes and workplaces through surfaces in contact with the ground, and can accumulate to harmful concentrations that increase the likelihood of lung cancer.  

In South Wales, a known radon affected area, authorities are taking proactive steps to mitigate this risk. One such authority, Bridgend County Borough Council (BCBC), called on PropertECO, radon testing and mitigation specialists, to assess and reduce the radon risks across its estate. 

Identifying the Risk: A Comprehensive Testing Programme

In 2022, BCBC was concerned about the potential risks posed by radon in a range of its buildings, including schools, community centres, sports halls, and office spaces. Recognising the importance of ensuring the health and safety of its employees and the public – and the legal responsibility for workplaces in radon affected areas to test for radon – the council turned to PropertECO. 

PropertECO undertook a large-scale testing programme across 73 buildings. The primary aim of the testing was to identify any buildings where radon concentrations exceeded the workplace compliance level of 300 Bq/m3.  

To conduct the testing, PropertECO deployed nearly 800 radon detectors across the selected properties. These detectors were placed in carefully chosen locations and left in place for a period of three months to accurately measure radon levels. The data collected during this period was then carefully analysed to identify any areas where radon concentrations exceeded the recommended action level. 

The Findings: High Radon Levels & Immediate Action

Once testing was complete, PropertECO reviewed the results and issued a detailed report to Bridgend Council. Whilst most buildings contained low levels of radon, there were a small number that had elevated concentrations;  in one of the tested buildings, radon levels exceeded 1000 Bq/m³ in some areas, well above the action level.  

While this was the most extreme case, a handful of other properties also showed elevated radon levels that warranted further investigation and remedial action. These included several schools and public buildings that, without intervention, could pose a health risk to the individuals who used them daily. The Council consulted with an independent third party Radiation Protection Advisor to provide advice on maximum exposure periods and access restrictions that should be implemented in the short term. 

In response to these findings, PropertECO proposed a tailored mitigation strategy for each building. The next step was to carry out design surveys to determine the best course of action for reducing radon concentrations and ensuring that any future exposure would remain within safe limits. 

Mitigation: Custom Solutions for Radon Reduction

Radon mitigation is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it requires a detailed understanding of the building’s construction and ventilation systems, and how radon is entering the premises. PropertECO worked closely with BCBC to design and implement mitigation systems that would address the specific needs of each building. 

The mitigation strategies included installing both radon sump systems and positive input ventilation systems to the affected rooms and buildings. These systems are designed to control where radon in the ground moves, directing it safely away from occupied indoor spaces.  

In order to minimise disruption to the daily operations of the buildings, PropertECO ensured that the installation of these mitigation systems was carried out at times that wouldn’t inconvenience building users, such as during school holidays.  

Verifying Success: Re-testing & Monitoring

After the mitigation systems were installed, it was essential to verify their effectiveness. PropertECO returned to the properties to conduct a second round of radon testing, ensuring that the systems had successfully reduced radon concentrations to acceptable levels. 

The results were promising: radon levels in the affected buildings had dropped significantly and were now all within safe limits. This demonstrated that the mitigation strategies had worked as intended and that the buildings were now safer for their occupants. 

However, radon is not a risk that can be ignored long-term, so a programme of ongoing monitoring and re-testing was implemented to ensure that radon concentrations remained under control. To further educate Bridgend Council’s staff on radon and its risks, PropertECO also delivered an online training session, equipping council employees with the knowledge needed to answer any questions from building users and continue to manage radon risk effectively. 

Ongoing Testing & Further Mitigation

The work didn’t stop there. In 2023 and 2024, PropertECO conducted an additional round of testing across a further 35 properties owned by BCBC. This testing identified three more schools with radon levels above the action level, which were subsequently remediated. 

With the combination of thorough testing, tailored mitigation solutions, and ongoing monitoring, Bridgend Council has significantly reduced the radon risk in its buildings. The council has demonstrated its eagerness to tackle this challenge and meet its legal obligations and now has a robust strategy in place to manage radon exposure and ensure the continued safety of the public and staff who use its facilities. 

Conclusion: A Commitment To Safety

PropertECO’s partnership with BCBC highlights the importance of proactive risk management when it comes to environmental hazards like radon. By carrying out comprehensive testing, implementing customised mitigation systems, and providing education and ongoing monitoring, the Council has played a crucial role in safeguarding the health and wellbeing of people in South Wales. 

Radon testing and mitigation is a critical aspect of maintaining safe, healthy buildings, and the Council’s approach demonstrates the impact that proactive action can have in protecting communities from the hidden dangers of this silent killer.  

If you think that you require the services of PropertECO or have any questions about how radon may be an issue in your property, then you can contact our team by clicking here.