The dangers of Radon Gas at home

The dangers of Radon Gas, a gas that emerges from the ground and can affect health and comfort at home. It is found in the air and water and can trigger or contribute to the development of lung cancer. Therefore, it is advisable to minimize its presence in inhabited places. However, since it has no color, odor, or taste, its detection is complicated.

Origin and risks of radon gas

The radon gas naturally comes from the radioactive decomposition and transformation of uranium, thorium, and radium. The particles of this gas travel in the air and with a lower pressure than ground gases. In this way, it passes through cracks and openings in slabs and enters homes. It can also do so through gaps in foundations, walls, or bathroom pipes.

It can also be found in water. However, in that case, the health risk is lower than when it concentrates in the air. The highest danger is from inhaling high levels of the gas. Once it reaches the lungs, they receive small amounts of radiation. Its harmful effects can become evident years after prolonged exposure. The victim is not aware of the damage they have been exposed to until the disease is detected.

The gas rises from the ground to the surface, although in open spaces its concentration is small because it dissipates. It is not toxic or dangerous in small amounts.

However, in closed spaces, ground-floor homes, industrial facilities, or workplaces, it can be dangerous. Hence the importance of good ventilation, for which controlled systems, such as extractors, are often used. The health risk is its triggering or synergistic effect in the appearance of lung cancer. So much so that it is the second leading cause of this disease, after tobacco. In smokers, the probability of developing this condition multiplies.

Radon detection test. Methods and time to perform it

For the detection of radon there are active and passive methods, and it is advisable to measure it in certain situations.

Passive methods

They are the most used and, in addition, it is important that they are certified with ISO 17025. Examples of these methods are CR39 trace detectors, scintillation cells or active charcoal detectors. Exposure is expressed in the following measure: kBq h-1m-3. On the other hand, when calculated incorporating the exposure time, the result is given in Bq m-3.

Active methods

Unlike the previous ones, active methods provide sequences of data associated with exposure time. Since the amounts of this gas can fluctuate greatly, even in the same day, measurement is complex. For that reason, experienced technicians are required in this area. There is a wide variety of devices that measure radon levels using this method. Their prices range from 100 euros to several thousand euros. Also, it is important that we always measure under similar conditions and with a calibrated device.

When to perform the detection test

It is convenient to conduct the measurement in several situations. One of them is in a building where we live that has never undergone this test. On the other hand, it is advisable to do it every ten years. Finally, if we have done renovations, or bought or rehabilitated a house, we should also request this test.

We have seen the origin and risks of radon gas. It is important to remember the need to ventilate homes well and to conduct the test in certain cases. If you are interested in this topic, check out the following article: The quality of indoor air and its multiple effects on health.