Why Is There Still an Awareness Gap?
In 2022, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the British Geological Survey (BGS) published updated radon mapping for Great Britain. It gave a more accurate picture of where radon risk really sits, and showed some areas where the risk had previously been underestimated. Four years on, lots of people still don't realise they could be affected.
Many are relying on old assumptions, such as radon being a problem only for places like the South West of England. Importantly, radon levels haven't suddenly risen.
As Dr Maria Dugdale, Chair of UKRA, explains:
"Radon has always been present, however modern mapping technology coupled with increased numbers of test results gave us a far clearer picture back in 2022. The problem is that public awareness hasn't kept pace with the data."
What Is Radon?
Radon is a colourless, odourless radioactive gas that forms naturally when uranium in rocks and soil decays. It can seep into buildings through floors, walls and gaps around pipes and service entries, then build up indoors. Long-term exposure to high levels increases the risk of lung cancer. Radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the UK after smoking.
Five Areas Where the Map Has Changed
UKRA is highlighting five locations where the latest mapping has changed the estimated likelihood of homes having higher radon levels including Leeds, Lincoln, Coventry, Barry and Brighton & Hove.
Don't see your area?
Every part of the UK has been mapped and given a risk rating, so it's worth checking wherever you live or work on the Radon map.
What Do the Risk Ratings Mean?
Each area's rating estimates the percentage of homes likely to have high radon levels, from less than 1% to greater than 30%. A "Radon Affected Area" is one where that probability is 1% or higher. UKHSA recommends testing all homes in Affected Areas.
The residential Action Level is an annual average of 200 Bq/m3, and in workplaces it's 300 Bq/m3. If levels go above these, action should be taken to reduce them.
Radon in the Workplace Employers have a responsibility too. Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidance requires all workplaces to complete a suitable and sufficient risk assessment, and in Radon Affected Areas that usually means carrying out radon testing.
What You Can Do This Radon Awareness Week
UKRA is calling on people to consider the following 4 actions.
Check Your Risk With Us
Not sure where to start? We can help:
- Check your postcode to see your area's radon risk
- Browse our radon monitors to test your home or workplace
- Book a free consultation call to talk it through with our team
As Dr Dugdale puts it:
"The great news about radon is that this is a risk we can do something about. We cannot see it, smell it or taste it - but we can measure it, and if levels are high, we can reduce them."