What is radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can be found in high concentrations in indoor environments, such as homes and workplaces. It is produced from the natural radioactive decay of uranium and can therefore be found in all rocks and soils. Radon can also be found in some building materials, such as concrete and bricks. Geographically, radon levels vary. For example, high levels of radon can typically be found in Scandinavia and Austria, while countries like Australia have much lower levels. However, it is important to remember that radon levels can still be high in homes or offices built over sedimentary soils if ventilation is poor.

Why should you measure radon continuously?

Radon is one of the main causes of lung cancer

Radon is estimated to contribute 3 % to 14 % of all lung cancer cases in a country affected by radon. The exact proportion depends on factors such as the national average radon concentration and smoking prevalence in the population. At long-term average radon concentrations, the risk of lung cancer increases by about 16 % per 100 Bq/m3.

Radon levels in buildings range from 10 Bq/m3 to 10 000 Bq/m3

In buildings such as homes, schools and offices, radon levels can vary considerably, ranging from as low as 10 Bq/m3 to more than 10 000 Bq/m3. Due to the properties of radon, occupants of these buildings may be unknowingly exposed to very high radon levels.

Radon levels vary from hour to hour

Radon levels vary greatly between neighbouring buildings and even within a building from day to day and hour to hour. Because of these variations, it is recommended to measure the average indoor radon concentration continuously.

There are many ways to reduce radon levels in buildings

Some common ways to reduce radon levels in existing buildings are:

• Improving the ventilation of the building.
• Prevents radon from passing from the basement to living spaces.
• Sealing of walls and floors.

Radon sensor

Our radon sensor is well suited for controlling ventilation, due to the frequent data collection. But it can also be used to produce long-term averages that can be used as a basis for decision-making on radon mitigation measures, as you get all the data directly into your system.