The RPII has conducted a National Radon Survey (NRS) to find out which regions are most at risk from radon. These parts of the country are called High Radon Areas. Although this type of survey is useful as a general guide, the only way to find out if a specific house has a high level of radon is to test it.
A radon measurement is carried out entirely by post. First, the householder is sent two radon detectors. To measure the radon levels, you simply place one of the detectors in an occupied bedroom, and the second detector in the main living area.
The RPII recommends that you leave the detectors in place for a minimum period of three months. This is because radon levels fluctuate with time. A reliable measurement will only be obtained over a three month or greater period.
No. Three months is sufficient to provide us with a reliable reading. Any measurement conducted over a period of less than twelve months is adjusted to take into account seasonal variations.
Simply send back the radon detectors by post to the RPII, where we will analyse them and inform you of the results. If necessary, we will also advise you as to how to reduce the radon level in your house.
Our test report will include the measurement period, the quantity of radon gas measured at both detectors’ locations, and the seasonally corrected annual average radon concentration for the whole house. It will also include our recommendations if any further action is required.
Radon is measured in becquerels per cubic metre of air (Bq/m3).The becquerel is a unit of radioactivity, and corresponds to one radioactive disintegration per second.
Radon levels vary widely from area to area and even from house to house. Various factors such as the geology, the construction type of the house and the ventilation all influence the amount of radon entering into a building. The average indoor radon level in Irish homes is 89 Bq/m3, but levels up to 550 times higher have been recorded.
No. The detectors are made of harmless materials, and emit no radiation. They do not require any electrical connections. Nor do they make any noise.
Yes. However, once a house becomes occupied, the radon level can change as a result of occupants opening doors and windows etc. So we recommend that measurements are carried out when the house is occupied.
Although there are techniques for measuring radon in the ground, these measurements do not necessarily indicate the likely radon levels in the completed house. The RPII does not consider a site radon measurement to be a reliable method of predicting the likely radon levels in a building after it has been constructed.
No. Geiger counters are used to detect gamma radiation. Radon gas emits a different type of radiation (alpha particles) which can only be measured using specialised equipment.
No. Radon levels can vary widely from house to house, even when they are built close to each other on the same type of soil. The only way of knowing the radon level in your home is to have your own house tested.
Yes, but this will not provide a reliable measurement of the average radon level. Radon levels vary according to climatic and other environmental factors. To obtain a reliable measurement, it is necessary to measure radon over a period of at least three months.
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