Why Is There So Much Radon Gas in Cornwall?
Radon gas is a naturally occurring radioactive gas found throughout the UK, but Cornwall is one of the areas where higher levels are particularly common.
In fact, much of Cornwall is classified as a Radon Affected Area, meaning there is a 1% or greater chance of a property having an indoor radon concentration at or above the UK action level of 200 becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m³).
But why is radon such a concern in Cornwall, and what can homeowners and businesses do about it?
To lend a hand, at Jarvis Nuclear, we decided to put together a detailed guide on everything you need to know about radon gas in Cornwall.
What Is Radon Gas?
Radon is a colourless, odourless. and tasteless radioactive gas. It is produced naturally as tiny amounts of uranium in rocks and soils break down over time. Because it is a gas, radon can move through the ground and enter buildings through cracks, gaps, and other openings in floors and foundations.
While everyone is exposed to some level of radon, concentrations can vary considerably between locations and individual properties. A building’s construction, ventilation, and relationship with the ground can all affect how much radon accumulates indoors.
Long-term exposure to high concentrations of radon can increase the risk of lung cancer. This makes understanding radon levels particularly important in areas where the underlying geology means higher concentrations are more likely.
Why Are Radon Gas Levels Higher in Cornwall?
One of the main reasons Cornwall has a higher radon potential is its geology.
Large parts of Cornwall are underlain by granite. Granite can contain naturally occurring uranium, which eventually decays through a series of radioactive elements to produce radon. The gas can then migrate through cracks and spaces in the ground before entering buildings above. Cornwall Council specifically identifies the granite bedrock in Cornwall as a factor that increases the risk of radon in homes.
This does not mean that every property built on granite will have high radon levels. In fact, radon concentrations can vary significantly even between neighbouring properties. However, the geology makes higher levels more likely in certain parts of the county.
Historically, particularly high radon potential has been associated with areas including Bodmin Moor, west Penwith, and the Wendron Moors, as well as other parts of Cornwall underlain by granite.
How Does Radon Get into a Building?
Radon usually enters a property from the ground beneath it. It can pass through cracks in concrete floors, gaps around pipes and services, suspended floors, cavities, and other routes between the building and the ground.
Once inside, radon can accumulate if there is insufficient ventilation. This is particularly relevant during colder months when windows and doors are kept closed and buildings may have less natural airflow.
Importantly, the age or appearance of a property does not necessarily tell you whether it has a radon problem. Older and newer buildings can both have elevated levels, which is why measurement is the most reliable way to understand the actual radon concentration within a particular property.
Should You Test for Radon in Cornwall?
If you live or work in an area where radon levels are known to be higher, testing is an important first step. The UK Health Security Agency provides radon mapping to identify areas where higher levels are more likely, but a map cannot tell you the exact concentration inside an individual building.
For homes, radon is normally measured using passive detectors placed in occupied rooms over an extended period. A 90-day Radon Detector Kit helps account for short-term fluctuations and provides a more useful indication of the property’s average radon level, but a Quick Indication Kit can also give you a general idea.
Businesses should also consider radon as part of their workplace risk assessment, particularly where the property is located in a Radon Affected Area or there are other reasons to suspect elevated levels.
What Happens if Radon Levels Are Too High?
Finding elevated radon levels does not mean that a building is unsafe to occupy or that you need to move out. There are a range of measures that can reduce indoor radon concentrations.
The appropriate solution depends on factors such as the measured radon concentration, the construction of the property, and the way radon is entering the building.
In some cases, improving ventilation may help. Higher concentrations may require more targeted remedial measures designed to prevent radon entering or remove it from beneath or within the building.
The important thing is to understand the problem first rather than assuming that a particular solution will work for every property. When in doubt contact an expert in the radiation profession.
How Jarvis Nuclear Can Help with Radon Gas in Cornwall
For homeowners, landlords and businesses concerned about radon, Jarvis Nuclear provides specialist radon measurement and advice across Cornwall and the South West.
With expertise in radiation protection and radon, we can help you understand the potential risks associated with your property and what steps may be appropriate if elevated levels are identified.
For homeowners and prospective property buyers, this can include advice on radon measurement, interpreting results and understanding what they mean for a particular property. We can also provide advice to businesses and schools, as well as other premises where radon needs to be considered as part of managing workplace or building-related risks.
If you are responsible for a workplace, we also offer face-to-face Radiation Protection Supervisor Courses in Cornwall to help you carry out your duties.
The Importance of Taking Radon Gas in Cornwall Seriously
Cornwall’s geology means that radon is a particular consideration for many properties across the county. However, the presence of a high radon potential does not automatically mean that an individual building has high radon levels.
The most sensible approach is to check the radon potential, measure where appropriate, and seek professional advice if elevated concentrations are found. With the right information and, where necessary, suitable remedial measures, radon levels in buildings can be reduced.
If you are concerned about radon in your home, business or other property in Cornwall, Jarvis Nuclear can provide specialist radon measurement, advice, and support to help you understand the risks and decide on the appropriate next steps.
To learn out more about our Radon Testing Services and/or Radon Testing Kits, please call us on 07587 167711 or email us by filling in our contact form.