Radon Testing and Mediation May Save You From Lung Cancer
Radon is a dangerous gas that can infiltrate a home from the ground beneath. Radon can be present in any area but there are specific areas that have been designated as ‘high risk’ zones. Within these zones, of which there are many in both the United States and the United Kingdom, many buildings have unsafe levels of radon. The geologic makeup of an area has a lot to do with how much radon is present in an area and if there is an unsafe infringement into a home or building. The problem can be exacerbated by HVAC systems, the presence of a basement, or a few other factor. The methods and units of radon measurement vary between the U.S and the U.K. Use the following paragraphs to begin your research regarding radon identification, measurement, and prevention in both the U.S and the U.K.
The Danger of Radon
Radon is a radioactive invisible gas with no noticeable odor. There is no way to detect it without a specialized radon monitor. It is a single atom gas that can penetrate most building materials. Radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. The presence of a basement usually increases radon levels of a home or building. Since radon’s effects are usually long-term many people choose to ignore elevated radon levels. This is hazardous and increases the risk of developing lung cancer exponentially.
What is an Unsafe Radon Level?
Radon is present in most structures but it is often at lower, safe , levels. It is only when the level reaches the ‘action point’ that mediation must be considered. Detection and measurement are different in the U.S than they are in the U.K
The U.K’s official radon measurement unit is the Becquerels (Bq) per meters cubed. A radon level of under 200 Bq’s is considered safe in the U.K. Once the level rises above that measurement action must be taken. The U.K system of measurement involves two radon detectors collecting data for three months. This long-term method yields a large amount of data that can be averaged to give a very accurate reason.
The U.S uses PicoCuries (pCi) per liter to measure radon. The action level is 4 PicoCuries per liter. If the radon level surpasses this level then action is recommended. In the United States short-term radon tests are used more than long-term. Short term tests involve one monitor in an area of the building or home. This takes measurements for as little as 3 days and is then sealed and sent to a laboratory for interpretation.
How to Reduce an Elevated Radon Level
Radon is an insidious gas that usually infiltrates a building or home through construction materials or even through the water. The only way to solve an elevated radon problem is to mitigate the radon, that is; use specialized equipment to route the radon gas out of your building.
A licensed radon mitigation company is the best way to solve a radon problem. These professionals are trained to design and install radon mitigation equipment to give you the best results.
Intrusive and toxic radon gas is a serious health problem that effects both the U.S an the U.K. Radon tends to be higher in certain areas than in other areas. It is very important to check your home or building’s radon level, especially if you live in a high-risk area. If the level is elevated consult a radon mitigation professional to eliminate the dangerous radon gas and provide peace of mind for you and your family.
Find your radon specialist for mitigation problems at Radon Association UK. For measuring of radon and to order test kits please visit Radonova UK or Radonova US. They sell accurate and proven methods of testing radon for houses, workplaces and apartments. Testing of radon can be done with their Radtrak or Rapidos test kits.
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