► Radon in cornwall
Radon in cornwall
Health protection agency: http://www.hpa.org.uk/HPA/Topics/Radiation/UnderstandingRadiation/1158934607718/
Or go to http://www.cornwall.gov.uk and search for “radon” We all breathe it in throughout our lives - for most UK residents, radon accounts for half of their total annual radiation dosage. However, geological conditions in certain areas can lead to higher than average levels. Some of the highest radon levels have been found in the southwest, but levels well above average have been found in some other parts of the UK. Exposure to particularly high levels of radon may increase the risk of developing lung cancer. The HPA has advised that indoor radon above an Action Level of 200 becquerels per cubic metre should be reduced. Most homes in the UK have fairly low radon levels, with an average of about 20 becquerels per cubic metre. The HPA conducts radon surveys for government departments, local councils, other organisations, and private householders. Small radon detectors can be sent directly to householders by post, and returned at the end of a three month period. Radon causes invisible damage to the plastic inside the detector. This damage can be measured and used to calculate the radon level. The householder is sent the result by letter. The most effective way to deal with radon is to fit a 'radon sump' to a property to vent the gas into the atmosphere. A sump has a pipe connecting a space under a solid floor to the outside. A small electric fan in the pipe continually sucks the radon from under the house and expels it harmlessly to the atmosphere. Modern sumps are often constructed from outside the house so there is no disruption inside. Information is also available about radon in the workplace.
If you still have further questions after readin gthis letter, then please email: hello@tremoughservices.com or contact the fxu office or Glasney Lodge.
The predominant geology of West Cornwall is granite which results in naturally occurring radon gas.
This is an inert gas, that is odourless, tasteless and not flammable.
In high concentration, with long-term exposure over a period of years this can result in some risk to health.
It is therefore necessary to undertake periodic monitoring in West Cornwall to ensure that appropriate action is taken to disperse this naturally occurring gas and prevent it from becoming concentrated in buildings.
If you live in private rented accommodation, particularly if you live in a very old granite house, ask your landlord if they have had the property tested for Radon.
A letter dated 18 March 2010
was sent out to Glasney Village Residents.
There is nothing to worry about, but
please read it for information relevant to you.
