"Radon is the second largest cause of lung cancer - The first is smoking."

What is Radon Gas?

Radon is a naturally occurring gas which is produced by the radioactive decay of uranium in soil and rocks. It is colourless, odourless and tasteless; as it moves through the porous layers of soil it reaches the open air and disperses rapidly into the atmosphere harmlessly. When it seeps into buildings, high concentrations can occur which may affect your health.

Living in Northamptonshire?

In 1988 the Government designated some areas of Devon and Cornwall, where new homes should include radon protection measures to satisfy the requirements of the Building Regulations. These areas have been modified as survey information has become available, and have been delineated in stages to now include parts of Somerset, Derbyshire and NORTHAMPTONSHIRE.

Following a nationwide survey, this has been extended to all parts of England where there is a significant probability of exceeding the Action Level for radon set by NRPB (National Radiological Protection Board).

What can I do to check my own home is safe?

Radon is present to a greater or lesser extent in all buildings, levels in neighbouring properties can vary substantially and it is not possible to determine the radon level without a competent measurement. The preferred method uses two detectors over a three-month period - one in the main living room and one in a bedroom in regular use. The tests are simple and undertaken by post. A single fee of £36.19 provides two detectors, their analysis, an explanation of the results, advice on the need for action, and all post and packaging.

The test packs are available from the NRPB by calling 0800 614529 (24 hour), or 01235 822622, or on-line at www.nrpb.org/radon, where you can also access various maps illustrating Radon concentration levels across England.

Once detected, excessive levels of Radon can be effectively reduced, the various methods are detailed in the NRPB information packs.