Radon in the Home
Measurement service for householders
The only reliable guide to the level of radon in a building is a measurement over a period long enough to average out short-term variations in radon levels - this should ideally be three months. The procedure recommended by the HPA is to use passive monitors as they are reliable, simple to use and can be sent by post. The individual result for each home is confidential and will not be given to anyone else without the prior consent of the householder at the time of the measurement. This service is available to any householder in the UK. This includes the supply of two radon detectors, their subsequent analysis and the reporting of the result. All packaging and return postage are also included.
A radon detector with improved performance has been introduced by the HPA, replacing the previous yellow detector. The replacement monitor is black because the outer shell is made of carbon-loaded plastic which reduces uncertainties caused by the build-up of electrostatic charge. The detector increases the efficiency and reliability of the measurement service.
Radon screening
There may sometimes be a need for rapid information about radon, for example to test the effect of mitigation work or when planning structural changes to a building. In such cases, screening tests can be helpful provided they are conducted in addition to the standard three-month test. This service provides an early indication of the likely result after only a couple of weeks. As with all short-term measurements, the result will be inconclusive in some cases. In such cases, the second set of detectors, returned after three months, will provide further information and a numerical value. The result is expressed in units that are directly comparable with the Action Level.
| Result of screening measurement | Conclusion, in relation to the Action Level | Value provided |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 100 Bq m-3 | Unlikely the AL is exceeded. | Yes |
| Between 100 Bq m-3 and 400 Bq m-3 | Uncertain, need longer test. | No |
| More than 400 Bq m-3 | Likely the AL is exceeded. | Yes |
Individual report on the radon potential for a home
The HPA provides an authoritative one-page report on the radon potential for a home. This report provides the reassurance of independent advice on radon potential without the need for individuals to consult and interpret detailed local maps - the report also includes brief advice on what to do next. The service has been developed by the HPA in response to demand from solicitors and others who wish to confirm whether a property is in a radon Affected Area, a question often raised during house conveyancing. The service covers the whole of England, Wales and Northern Ireland and is based on published data.
This service includes a written report which will be issued with information on the results of radon measurements, both within the local authority area and the immediate locality of the property, as well as an estimation of the probability of elevated levels of radon existing in the property. However, measurement data for individual properties will not be provided because there is a confidential agreement between the HPA and individual householders.
We aim for a rapid turn-round time, with the report being despatched within five working days of a search request. In order to achieve this and to keep the costs low, a cheque or credit card payment is required with the request.
Please note: Environmental search reports from other providers also provide this information and, unless a formal report from the HPA is required, there is nothing to be gained from obtaining the HPA report as well.
Radon information for professionals
The HPA provides essential information about radon in the home to professional groups, such as solicitors, estate agents and surveyors. The information includes a leaflet with a coloured, A4-size map of England which gives the probability of finding high radon levels in each 5 km2 of the Ordnance Survey grid. Other information given in the leaflet includes a summary of the risks from exposure to radon, typical costs of remedial measures and where to go for further information.
The HPA produces a free radon information pack which gives basic information about radon and describes how to obtain a radon measurement.
Ordering these services
The specific services listed here are now available on UKradon.org which is the radon services site operated by the Health Protection Agency. Please visit this site, where you will be able to order on line and pay by major credit or debit card for any of the following; a radon risk report, a radon measurement kit (two detectors) for your home, or radon detector ordering service for employers.
Order by telephone: phone 01235 822622 (office hours only).
Enquiries can be made by e-mail. Please send your name, address and postcode to radon@hpa.org.uk.
Last reviewed: 8 October 2009
