Radon is a gas formed naturally within rock depending on nature and composition of the rock. It has potential to enter and accumulate in building structures especially confined spaces, such as basement. A long-term exposure to radon gas is linked with health issues such as lung cancer. The Health and Protection Agency (HPA) has recommended an action level of 200 becquerels per cubic metre for indoor concentration of radon. If this level is likely to be reached or exceeded indoor, HPA recommend protective measures to be installed with in the property.
The Health Protection Agency, in conjunction with The British Geological Survey, have produced a new set of radon maps showing areas in England and Wales that may potentially be affected by radon gas. The radon maps are based on geological conditions and actual measurements taken from properties standing on the type of geology that has the potential to produce the gas. The maps have identified, for the first time, a small area within the Guildford Borough, which may be affected by radon gas. These areas in Guildford come under Radon Class 3 (3-5% of the properties likely to exceed the action levels) and 4 (5-10% likely to exceed the action levels).
The HPA recommends basic protection measures to be installed in Class 3 and Class 4 radon affected areas. Please bear in mind that this classification is solely based on underlying geology in Guildford. The only way to find out whether your property is exceeding the radon action level is by testing. A testing kit can be purchased from the HPA. More information can be obtained from the Health Protection Agency (HPA) website (this page opens in a new window).
The Department For Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) have published a useful guide for the householders in the UK, providing information on methods for radon reduction.
To find out if you are in radon affected area, please contact Environmental Health.
Environmental Health
Guildford Borough Council
Millmead House
Millmead
Guildford
Surrey
GU2 4BB
Tel: 01483 444371
Fax: 01483 444546
Email: environmentalhealth@guildford.gov.uk