Ventilation against radon gas and other ways to protect yourself

The knowledge of the causes and origins of radon gas is increasingly an urgent need in Spain, with projects aimed at understanding how this poison propagates. Until very recently, it was a widely unknown substance, and we now know that this poison is almost undetectable and is present in many Spanish territories. What is the best way to combat it? Without a doubt, by renewing the air. Ventilation against radon gas is the most effective solution to eliminate this threat.

A latent danger that can cause very serious damage. The radon gas can wreak havoc on our respiratory system and is considered the second leading cause of lung cancer cases in Spain, according to the World Health Organization. Perhaps its two biggest problems are ignorance and how difficult it is to detect.

About how little known radon gas is, we can say that its presence is relatively recent, as we have only known of it for three decades, although it has always been with us. Regulations against its harmful effects are still very recent. In contrast, in the central region of Spain and in the entire area near Portugal, the concentration of radon is very high. You can check these regions on the map of radon gas.

Regarding how to detect its presence, the challenge is greater. This is because it is a gas that has no smell, color, or shape, does not impregnate walls or furniture, and is only detectable with professional equipment, and it takes a significant amount of time to know of its presence. Therefore, the authorities request the following processes:

• An informative campaign is necessary to create awareness among users.
• The search for areas affected by radon gas is important, and the data is shown on the page of the National Security Council.
• Public aid must be offered to those affected buildings so that they can improve the situation of their homes.
• The Government must facilitate radon gas detection systems.

However, detecting this poison is complicated, so protecting oneself to combat gas is an option that should be considered. Ventilation against radon gas is the best solution to avoid this problem, as radon is found in the air, and only by renewing it can we ensure that we can resolve this problem.

Radon gas originates underground, and the most affected homes are those with basements or lower floors. In some of these places, radon gas originates and filters through walls or doors into other areas of the home.

Why is ventilation against radon gas important? Mechanical ventilation systems extract poor-quality air and allow renewed air to circulate. Through extraction fans, indoor air that has lost quality is eliminated and renewed with air from outside, either through ventilation grilles that connect to the outside or through double-flow ventilation systems.

Improving our homes to combat radon gas

Ventilation against radon gas is the most efficient way to prevent the damage that this nearly undetectable poison can cause to our lungs. Air renewal ensures that we can prevent problems in our homes and that we do not have to lament respiratory issues or even cases of lung cancer.

In addition to air renewal, there are other options to improve our homes if we live in an area affected by radon gas:

• The essential thing is to improve ventilation. First in the underground area - where the poison originates - but also in the rooms and living areas.
• It is possible to install mechanical extraction ventilation systems that remove air from the underground area.
• All filtration that may occur from the basement must be sealed. From small cracks to large gaps, any filtration can be lethal. Similarly, we can depressurize the space between the building's floor and the ground to help prevent the gas from spreading into the rooms.
• Finally, it is also possible to seal the walls so that the gas does not filter and remains in the underground area.

It is essential to protect our homes to prevent the entry of this poison, and if we are unaware of the impact, we can use ventilation systems against radon gas, which will also improve our health and comfort in the home by allowing us to breathe higher quality air.