Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive, colourless, and odourless gas that forms from the decay of uranium in rocks and soil. It can seep into homes and workplaces, accumulate in enclosed spaces and potentially increase the risk of illnesses, including lung cancer.
There’s lots of expert jargon that crops up when researching around radon and ‘becquerels’ and ‘picocuries’ are a common point of confusion. Given that radon can only be detected through specialist testing, it’s important to understand some of the technical terms that come with the process. So, in today’s blog we’re going through all you need to know about radon action levels.
Understanding Radon Measurements
In the UK, radon levels are measured in becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m³). This unit, named after scientist Henri Becquerel, quantifies the rate at which radioactive decay occurs. If you’ve been researching radon from US sources, you may have encountered measurements in picocuries per litre (pCi/L), with 1 pCi/L equating to 37 Bq/m³.
What Are Radon Action Levels?
Radon action levels are guideline limits set by the UK Government to indicate when remedial action should be taken to reduce radon concentrations in buildings. These thresholds differ between residential properties and workplaces.
Residential Action Levels
For homes, the action level is set at 200 Bq/m³. If radon levels exceed this threshold, mitigation measures should be implemented to reduce exposure. If you are an owner-occupier, it is your choice whether you carry out remedial works or not (but be warned, potential future buyers may be put off if you do not). Tenanted properties that exceed this action level fall under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), which classifies the level of risk of a variety of hazards in the home including fire, electrical safety, mould and radon. If action is not taken, local authorities then have the power to enforce remedial measures where the risk is deemed significant.
In 2010, a Target Level of 100 Bq/m³ was introduced as guidance. While not a legal requirement, reducing radon levels below this threshold is strongly recommended. This is particularly important when it comes to households with smokers or ex-smokers, as smoking significantly increases the health risks associated with radon exposure.
Workplace Action Levels
In workplaces, the action level is higher and is set at 300 Bq/m³. If radon levels exceed this threshold, the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17) apply. Under IRR17, employers must assess the risk, take steps to reduce exposure, and, if necessary, restrict access to high-radon areas.
Employers must also consult a Radiation Protection Adviser (RPA) if radon levels exceed 300 Bq/m³. A specialist contractor (that’s us) may need to be appointed to install a radon mitigation system. Once mitigation measures are in place, further testing must be carried out to ensure radon concentrations have been successfully reduced.
How to Check Radon Levels in Your Property
The only way to determine whether your home or workplace has elevated radon levels it to order a radon test. While resources like the UK Radon Map provide an indication of radon risk in different areas, they do not replace actual testing.
Testing is straightforward and typically involves placing passive radon detectors in key locations within a building (e.g., a bedroom and living room for homes, or ground-floor workspaces for offices). These detectors should remain in place for three months to provide an accurate reading. Once the test period ends, the detectors are sent to a laboratory for analysis, with results usually available within a few weeks. propertECO aim to email you your results within 10 working days and can often turnaround faster if a rapid result is required.
What to Do If Radon Levels Exceed the Action Level
If your test results indicate radon levels above the action threshold, remedial work is necessary.
The two most effective mitigation methods are:
- Radon Sumps: These are installed beneath the building and use a fan to extract and divert radon from the ground, preventing it from entering the property. This method is particularly effective in properties with solid floors.
- Positive Pressure Systems: These systems introduce fresh air into the building, diluting radon levels and inhibiting gas from entering through floors and walls.
For both workplaces and residential properties, a full assessment should be conducted, and mitigation work should be carried out by a professional contractor. After installing a mitigation system, repeat testing is required to confirm that radon levels have been successfully reduced.
Ongoing Radon Management
Managing radon is not a one-time process. Regular monitoring is recommended, especially in areas known to have high radon concentrations. Homeowners should test their properties every five to ten years, or sooner if structural changes are made. Employers should conduct periodic assessments in accordance with workplace safety regulations.
Understanding and managing radon levels is vital for protecting health and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. By being aware of radon action levels, testing regularly, and taking appropriate mitigation measures when necessary, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with radon exposure. Whether you are a homeowner or an employer, staying proactive in radon management will help create safer indoor environments for everyone.
For more information or to order a radon test kit, contact our expert team at PropertEco today.
