Radon: Invisible danger for property owners
After smoking, radon is the most common cause of lung cancer in Germany. This radioactive noble gas, which is found in most soils, can penetrate buildings and poses a considerable health risk. The Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS) therefore advises people to have the radon levels in their own property checked.
How does radon get into the house?
Soil air containing radon rises from the subsoil and can penetrate buildings through cracks, fissures or pipe penetrations. Basements and ground floors are particularly affected, but radon levels can also be measurable on higher floors. In some cases, building materials also emit radon, which further increases exposure.
Health risks due to radon
According to the BfS, around five per cent of all lung cancer deaths can be attributed to radon. As radon is invisible, odourless and tasteless, it is inhaled unnoticed. The higher the concentration and the longer the exposure, the greater the risk. According to the BfS, there is no safe threshold value.
Regions and properties particularly affected
On the Map of the BfS the following federal states in particular are listed as being exposed to radon:
- Thuringia, Saxony, Bavaria
- Baden-Württemberg, Rhineland-Palatinate
- Hesse, North Rhine-Westphalia
Older buildings without a continuous concrete foundation slab or modern moisture insulation are particularly at risk. Properties without basements or those with living areas in the basement are also at a higher risk.
How can you protect yourself?
Experts recommend having the radon concentration in your own property measured. Radon measuring devices cost between 30 and 50 euros, depending on the provider. Alternatively, you can take part in an ongoing study by the BfS, in which the measurement results are provided free of charge. Further information can be found at here.
The BfS recommends the following immediate measures:
- Regular shock ventilation to quickly exchange the indoor air.
- Sealing doors, pipes and radon entry routes into the building.
- Extraction of soil air containing radon in permeable subsoil.
For comprehensive measures, you should contact a certified radon specialist.
