Radon Gas: What Is It and What Risks Does It Pose to Our Health?

Radon gas, a naturally occurring radioactive substance, is often referred to as the "silent killer." It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it nearly impossible to detect without specialized equipment until it begins to harm our health. In this blog post, we’ll explore what radon is, where it comes from, why it is dangerous, and how we can reduce the risks in our homes.

What Is Radon and How Does It Enter Homes?

Radon is a noble gas that forms naturally as uranium decays in soil and certain building materials. It can infiltrate indoor spaces through foundations, cracks, and utility shafts. Some construction materials, such as volcanic rocks, can also serve as significant sources of radon contamination.

Radon becomes particularly hazardous in poorly ventilated spaces. Airtight windows and thermal coatings used for energy efficiency can increase radon and other indoor pollutants' concentrations.

Why Is Radon Called the "Silent Killer"?

The term "silent killer" originated in the United States, where radon has been extensively studied and addressed. The danger lies in the fact that radon is imperceptible to human senses. Even when dissolved in water, it remains tasteless. Radon poses health risks both when inhaled and when ingested through drinking water.

Research shows that prolonged exposure to radon is one of the leading causes of lung cancer, particularly among non-smokers.

How Can Radon Risks Be Reduced?

While radon is present worldwide, it poses a greater threat in single-family homes than in multi-story buildings, where concentrations decrease with elevation. Historic buildings, often constructed with locally sourced stones that may contain high levels of radon, are particularly susceptible.

To mitigate radon risks:

• Conduct measurements : For an accurate assessment, long-term measurements (3–6 months or even a year) analyzed in a laboratory are recommended.
• Improve ventilation : Both decentralized and centralized ventilation systems with heat recovery can significantly lower radon levels while enhancing indoor air quality.

Why Is It Important to Address Radon?

Today, people spend more than 90% of their time indoors, meaning indoor air quality—including radon levels—has a significant impact on health. Despite over 30 years of research on radon, awareness of its risks often fails to reach the general public and construction industry professionals.

Conclusion:

The risks posed by radon may seem alarming, but they are manageable with proper attention and action. Regularly monitoring indoor air quality and enhancing ventilation in your home are key steps to safeguarding your health and your family’s well-being. By addressing indoor air quality proactively, you can protect yourself from the dangers of this invisible pollutant.