Radon in dwellings

The natural radioactive gas radon enters houses from the ground underneath, where it is formed from uranium, which is found in all rock and soil.  Radon levels indoors depend on the concentration of radon in the ground, details of construction of the house, and the way the house is heated and ventilated.  Levels can vary widely between apparently identical houses:  the only way to find out whether there is a high level in a particular house is to measure it. 

Health studies from around the world have linked radon with lung cancer.  People who are exposed to high levels of radon are more likely to get lung cancer and more so if they are smokers. 

It is recommended that remedial action should be taken to reduce radon levels where the indoor concentration exceeds the Action Level of 200 Bq m3 (Becquerels per cubic metre). 

Radon levels in homes are usually measured using two small detectors, which are sent by post.  They are left in place for three months and then returned for processing.  The detectors are simple and robust plastic devices that contain a radiation sensitive element; they are harmless and do not give off any radiation. 

Measurements should not be made if a house is unoccupied or undergoing building works.  Each detector should be placed in a main occupied room on a shelf or piece of furniture where air can circulate freely around it.  Locations to avoid include the floor, window sills in direct sunlight or draughts and sources of heat such as fireplaces or electrical equipment.

Radon Survey in Guernsey

The States of Guernsey Civil Defence Committee survey of radon gas levels in Guernsey Dwellings was completed at the end of 1989.  The results indicated that there is no widespread area in Guernsey with radon levels comparable with those found in the South West of England.  It is therefore unlikely that very high levels will occur. 

General Advice

General advice to house purchasers is not to let the matter of radon influence their choice of place to live, however, the Radiation Protection Division, Health Protection Agency is willing to offer a measurement service to householders.  The Radiation Protection Division of the Health Protection Agency is able to supply radon detectors for use in dwellings and undertake their subsequent analysis.

In areas such as Guernsey, where free surveys are not available, there is a standard charge of £38.75.  This charge covers the supply of the detectors, their subsequent analysis and the reporting of the result to the householder. 

Contact Radon Freephone 0800 614529 for details of the service

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