Local authorities and housing associations are tasked with maintaining safe environments for employees, tenants and the public. Among the many health and safety concerns they face, radon is a hazard that’s often overlooked but can have serious implications. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding radon, your responsibilities and how to manage risks effectively.
What Is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas formed by the decay of uranium in rocks and soil. While it can be present anywhere, levels are usually low and pose minimal risk. However, in some areas, radon levels can accumulate in dangerous concentrations, increasing the risk of lung cancer.
Radon levels are measured in becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m³). The UK average is 20 Bq/m³, with levels below 100 Bq/m³ being considered low risk. However, as radon levels rise, so does the risk to our health.
Understanding the UK Radon Map
The UK Health Security Agency has created a radon map highlighting areas where high radon levels are more likely to occur. The darker areas on the map indicate a greater chance of high radon levels, with 30% of properties likely having high radon levels. The lightest areas represent a low probability, with less than 1% of properties being estimated as having high levels of radon.
NB: Basements, Cellars and Underground Sites
Basements, cellars, and underground sites are excluded from the map’s general guidance. These spaces are at a higher risk of radon regardless of their location. Therefore, if your property has a basement or underground site that is occupied for at least an hour per week on average, you should test for radon even if it is not within a radon affected area.
Radon and Your Legal Responsibilities
For Employers
Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, local authorities must assess radon risks in their workplaces located in radon-affected areas or with basements where employees work.
If radon levels exceed 300 Bq/m³, employees will be deemed to be working in an environment where they are exposed to radiation , and the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17) come into effect. This means that immediate action must be taken.
For Tenants
The Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS) specifically addresses radon exposure. With increased awareness, tenants are asking councils about radon testing results. Proactively testing and addressing radon risks not only ensures compliance but also demonstrates a commitment to tenant safety.
Steps to Manage Radon Risks
1. Check the UK Radon Map
Use the map to identify whether your properties are in designated radon affected areas (risk band of 1-3% probability and higher).
2. Check Whether Your Property has a Basement, Cellar or Any Underground Sites
3. Test for Radon
If your property is in a risk area or has a basement, conduct a radon test using passive detectors. These devices are left in place for three months and then analysed in a laboratory to determine radon levels. PropertECO offers a ‘place and collect’ service for large property portfolios.
4. Assess the Results
If levels are below the action threshold, no further action is required. If levels exceed the threshold, mitigation measures must be implemented or access controlled.
5. Mitigation Measures
- Radon Sumps: Ideal for reducing radon in properties with high concentrations.
- Positive Pressure Systems: Introduce fresh air to dilute radon levels indoors.
Mitigation works are typically completed within a day, with minimal disruption to occupants.
Our Work with County Councils
A County Council in South East England approached PropertECO to conduct a radon testing programme across 214 properties, including schools, libraries and fire stations.
We managed the entire process: placing detectors, collecting them after three months, and providing detailed analysis of each site. Ten properties were found to exceed the workplace action level of 300 Bq/m³ and mitigation action was taken promptly.
After completing a comprehensive mitigation survey, we designed and installed radon sumps and positive pressure systems tailored to each property, ensuring day-to-day operations were unaffected.
As a result, all properties were brought far below the radon action level and were provided with regular retesting schedules to ensure the effectiveness of our solutions.
To view the full case study, click here.
Act Now
Radon awareness is growing, and councils must take proactive steps to protect employees and tenants.
To make an enquiry about our Radon Testing and Mitigation services, call us on 0800 046 6193 or contact us online.