What is radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive element. It is a colourless, odourless and tasteless gas. Radon is found in the atmosphere but tends to accumulate in underground space such as caves, mines and basements. Radon can increase the risk of lung cancer, especially when combined with smoking. Before appropriate ventilation became mandatory, many miners developed lung cancer from radon exposure.

Where can radon be found?

Whilst the highest levels of radon gas are usually found in underground spaces, high concentrations are found in ground floor buildings due to a higher likelihood of a slightly lower pressure than the surrounding atmosphere. This allows radon from subsoil underneath buildings to enter through cracks and gaps in the floor.

Workplaces such as basements, mines, caves and utility industry service ducts can have significant levels of radon as can any above-ground workplaces in radon affected areas. All workplaces including factories, offices, shops, classrooms, nursing homes, residential care homes and health centres can be affected. 

Radon risk reports are required to determine the risk levels of a selected building (NOT the level of radon at the selected address). They are used to estimate the probability of a building being above or below the Action Level for radon. The Action Level refers to the annual average concentration in a home where there is more than 200 becquerels per metre cubed (200 Bq m-3). If the result is a higher probability of radon levels within the selected building then further radon measurements and testing should be conducted in order to reach the radon Target Level. The Target Level of 100 Bq m-3 is the ideal outcome for remediation works in existing buildings and protective measures in new buildings. If the result of a radon assessment is between the Target and Action Levels, action to reduce the level should be seriously considered.

For redevelopment sites, GeoReports provided by the British Geological Survey should be undertaken.

Our Radon Services

• Radon Surveys - Radon surveys and tests should be conducted in any building where its location and characteristics suggest that elevated levels of radon may be found posing a threat of significant exposure to employees or other persons
• Radon Risk Assessments - According to the HSE, risk assessments for radon should be carried out in relation to all below ground work places in the UK and all workplaces located in radon affected areas (both below and above ground). Reviews of the risk assessment should be conducted when significant changes are made to the fabric of the building or to works being carried out within the affected building

What are my legal requirements?

As outlined in the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, employers must, so far as is reasonably practicable, ensure the health and safety of employees and others who have access to their work environment.

Employers are required to take action to restrict exposure. It is the responsibility of the HSE and Local Authorities to enforce these regulations.

Our knowledge of the issues surrounding the risk management and legal compliance of hazardous materials gives our clients complete reassurance throughout their project, with real time visibility of all hazardous materials and all risks. Through our team, when our clients partner with us, they have our expertise and environmental management capabilities available locally throughout the length of every project.

With our most recent acquisition of Aberdeen Radiation Protection Services (ARPS) we can now deliver a full suite of RPS services.

Contact our team today. Click 'Make an Enquiry' now or give our team a call on 0345 5040 303.