Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is found in the earth's crust and can be released into the air. It is a common element in the environment, as it can be found in all regions of the world.
Radon is one of the main causes of lung cancer, but it can be prevented through ventilation, proper insulation and the use of a radon detector in the house. The risk of exposure to radon increases with age, but it also varies according to where you live.
The French government has defined a level of risk of exposure to radon based on population density and geographical area, as well as other factors such as the state of the dwellings, ventilation systems and living conditions such as smoking habits.
However, there are other factors that influence the amount of radiation you will receive from radon gas: your sleeping habits, your diet and whether or not you have ever been exposed to radon.
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Where does radon come from?
Radon is a gas permanently generated by radium. Radium is present in rocks, soil, water and radium. This alkaline earth metal is a decay product ofuranium naturally present in the soil and rocks of the earth's crust. To summarise: the concentration of radon gas is directly related to the amount of uranium present in the soil.
However, it is important to note that the presence of radon in a house depends mainly on the type of soil on which it is built. Cracks, openings and various penetrations in the foundation of a house allow radon in the soil to enter the house. The ventilation rate and airflow patterns inside a house are important factors that influence the amount of radon that will be drawn into different areas of the house.
How can I find out the level of radon in my home?
Radon tests are divided into short-term tests (less than 90 days, usually 2-7 days) and long-term tests, which are between 3 and 12 months.
The most commonly used device for short-term radon measurements in homes is the charcoal cartridge. This device is usually a small metal container that contains activated charcoal. Radon in the air is adsorbed onto the charcoal and the decay products can then be measured by a laboratory to determine the radon concentration in the air.
Another type of test is the electronic continuous radon monitor. These devices generally produce more accurate radon measurements, but are more expensive.
While short-term tests are useful for screening and in situations where results are needed quickly, a long-term test is a better indicator of the average radon level. Radon levels are known to be affected by the time of day, as they vary with temperature changes during the day. They are also affected by the seasons, generally increasing in winter. By using a long-term test device, a true annual average can be obtained.
How can I find out the level of radon in my home?
Radon gas is classified as a hazardous substance for humans. It significantly affects indoor air quality and often accumulates in the basements of our homes. Excessive and prolonged exposure to radon is directly linked to an increased likelihood of developing lung cancer.
Surveys suggest that exposure to radon is the second most important contributor to lung cancer after cigarette smoke. For non-smokers, this is the most important factor.
What are the risks associated with radon gas?
Radon gas is classified as a hazardous substance for humans. It significantly affects indoor air quality and usually accumulates in the basements of our homes. Excessive and prolonged exposure to radon is directly linked to an increased likelihood of developing lung cancer.
Surveys suggest that radon exposure is the second most important contributor to lung cancer after cigarette smoke. In non-smokers, it is the most important factor.
If you have high levels of radon in your home, what should you do?
The radon level can easily be neutralized in every house. If you carry out a test and find high levels of radonIf you have a basement, you may want to consider installing a mechanical ventilation system in your basement as well as waterproofing work.
This work is useful to reduce the presence of radon in your home and protect the health of your family at the same time. Furthermore, the installation of a radon detector is one of the solutions to protect you from the risks inherent to radon inhalation: monitoring the presence of radon will allow you to consider whether or not to carry out additional work in order to neutralise the radon risk definitively.
