Reducing Radon in Universities
What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas, with no smell, colour, or taste. Radon is formed in the earth’s crust1, as well as rocks and soils, from the natural radioactive decaying uranium. When it escapes from the ground, Radon decays and produces further radioactive particles into the air, which if breathed in, can lead to these particles being deposited onto the cells lining our airways, damaging DNA and potentially causing lung cancer, if you are exposed for an extended period of time. 2
In outdoor spaces, Radon dilutes to very low concentrations and is generally much less prevalent, if at all. The average outdoor radon level in the UK varies from building to building.
Why can radon be dangerous in universities?
High levels of radon over long periods of time can become trapped indoors. That’s why many choose to monitor radon in their homes, where people spend the majority of their time. Similarly, workplaces and education practices are also a major source of exposure, as people spend a lot of time there. Health studies show that radon is responsible for over 1000 lung cancer deaths each year in the UK, the second largest cause after smoking3, and concentrations of radon are more prevalent in indoor spaces.
Radon concentration within buildings is dependent on:
- Local geology – for instance the uranium content of the underlying rocks and soils
- Passage routes available for radon from the soil into a building
- Rate of exchange between indoor and outdoor air, dependant on the construction of the building, occupant ventilation habits, and airtightness of a building
The main entry points for Radon in buildings is through cracks in the floors or at floor-wall junctions, gaps around pipes or cables, small pores in hollow-block walls, cavity walls, or sumps and drains. Levels of radon tend to be higher in ground floor spaces, such as libraries, student common rooms, and lobby areas.
Radon levels see considerable variation between adjacent buildings3, which are common on university and college campuses. Radon levels fluctuate over time and are based on the above conditions.
How can universities improve their radon levels?
Radon is part of the air we breathe, but in high concentrations over long periods of time it can be dangerous. There are methods in which you can limit radon levels in indoor settings, such as lecture theatres and libraries. The first step is to monitor levels, it’s important to know when levels are high and where. This will also help you to know the problem has been resolved.
How to limit radon:
- Enhancing under-floor ventilation
- Improving ventilation of the building, particularly in context of energy conservation
- Sealing floors and walls
- Installing a radon sump system 4
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