Radon analysis
Radon is a radioactive noble gas, which in itself is not dangerous and is found in the soil in larger and smaller amounts. It is the product of decay, so called “radon daughters” (radioactive metal atoms), which is hazardous to health.
Radon is found in all soil under the ground, different types of soil (bedrock, soil) emit different high levels of radon to the ground air. Blue concrete can also emit radon gas. Sampling is the only way to find out if a home has too high levels.
Today, it is estimated that around 400,000 Swedish homes have higher radon levels than the limit and guideline values recommend. Radon is found in indoor air and drinking water.
Radon in the indoor air
The main cause of the presence of radon in the indoor air is ground air which penetrates through the leaks of the foundation or basement. Radon can also be emitted from building materials where blue concrete is an example.
All houses can contain radon which may be due to:
- where the house is located
- how the ground is shaped
- how close the house is to the ground
- how good the ventilation is and/or possible presence of radon in the drinking water
Sampling period
The best period to measure radon in indoor air is during the so-called heating season, October 1 to April 30. Measures should be taken if the radon value exceeds 200 Bq/m3, as determined by Folkhälsomyndigheten (the Swedish Public Health Agency).
It is possible to make both short-term and long-term measurements. Short-term measurements means 7 days and gives an advisory result. Long-term measurement lasts for at least 2 months (preferably 3 months), to obtain an annual average value.
The radon kit has a best before date, therefore we ask you to contact us in time when you wish to perform a radon measurement.
Radon can be present in both air and drinking water
Radon can also be found in drinking water, mainly from cold springs and drilled wells. Drinking water with radon is not considered to pose a major health risk, however, the radon passes from the water to the indoor air.
A hazardous gas
According to Strålsäkerhetsmyndigheten (the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority), about 500 people fall ill each year with lung cancer where radon is believed to be the cause. Smokers, former smokers and passive smokers are most at risk.
Contact persons
Catarina Wernlund
Head of Environment
Phone: +46 (0)31-65 64 93
Catarina Wernlund
Head of Chemistry
Phone: +46 (0)31-65 64 93
first.lastname@safecontrol.se
Accreditation
Safe Control Materialteknik AB is accredited since 2001 and has had flexible accreditation since 2016.
All testing takes place against European and international standards.
See our Scope of Accreditation »