Orkney Islands Council is working with the Health Protection Agency (HPA) to identify and reduce high levels of radon in homes with the support of the Scottish Government. NHS Orkney also supports the programme, as prolonged exposure to high radon levels increases the risk of lung cancer, especially for smokers or ex-smokers. Exposure to the combination of radon gas and cigarette smoke creates a greater risk for lung cancer than either factor alone. The majority of radon related cancer deaths occur among smokers and ex-smokers.
Although the testing is voluntary, by taking part you will discover if you and your family are at risk from radon in your home. You will help us to assess the health risk in your area and to ensure that any money spent on radon reduction is used appropriately. The overall data will be analysed to provide information on how to reduce the health risk from this proven cause of lung cancer.
The risks applying to workplaces are similar to those applying to private homes and employers have a statutory duty to protect workers from exposure to radon. Details of responsibilities under Health and Safety Legislation, and related issues, are available in Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Publication ‘Radon in the Workplace’, which can be accessed via the link in the 'Related Sites' section of this page.
Special provisions apply to the protection of new buildings in radon affected areas and Building Regulations currently require building works to include appropriate measures to prevent potential health risks according to the underlying risk in the area. For more information, click on the Building Standards situated in the 'Related Links' section of this page.
The radon maps do not show what the radon level is in any particular building and householders/owners will have to judge what action to take in the light of the general level of risk in the area. This might include general public health precautionary measures such as stopping smoking (as the risk is greater for smokers) or ensuring adequate ventilation. Beyond that, the first step is to measure the actual level of radon in the building. Only then can the householder/owner judge the degree of actual risk and what specific measures are required, if any.
For the latest cost and for details of how to obtain a radon test kit, see the Health Protection Agency links under the 'Related Sites' section of this page.
Telephone: 01856873535 and ask for Environmental Health.
Email: Contact us by email by clicking here.
Link to the UKradon website is located in Related Sites.
Telephone: 01235 822 622
Email: Contact UKradon by email by clicking here.
Link to the Building Research Establishment website is located in the 'Related Sites' section of this page.