It’s impossible to get rid of radioactivity in our daily lives. We are exposed to it even inside our homes and it plays a huge role even in medicine. The good news is we can certainly reduce our exposure and any of the harmful effects it can cause.
An example of radioactive gas is Radon.
Radon is a naturally occurring gas that has no odour, colour and taste. It comes from the normal decay of uranium found in rocks, soil and water. From the ground it goes up into particles that a human can breathe.
1. Radon is one of the leading causes of lung cancer.
Only smoking causes more lung cancer cases than radon exposure.
Radon gas in the air can break into smaller particles which can stay on the lining of your lungs. These then give off radiation, damage cells and possibly lead to cancer.
If you are exposed to high levels of radon and smoke cigarettes too, you are 25 times more at risk of getting lung cancer.
2. Radon concentrations are higher indoors.
Outdoors, radon is not much of a concern. Indoors and areas with low ventilation have higher concentrations. Structures with confined air spaces can cause radon to build up.
In Australia, the Australian Bureau of Statistics found that the average radon level in homes along the Great Dividing Range is higher than in other areas. Aside from house type, the main factor is the underlying geology (rock and soil).
3. Radon levels can be high in underground caves and mines.
Although Australia’s radon level is low compared with other countries, radon exposure especially among cave and mine workers is still a significant radiation protection issue.
Uranium mines in Australia regularly monitor radiation levels for the workers’ safety. Since underground operations are more likely to have high radon decay than an open-cut mine, it’s important for companies to have a radiation management plan. A radiation management plan must comply with the Code of Practice and Safety Guide.
4. Radon can enter your home through wall cracks and drains.
Since radon can be found in soil and different types of rock, this radioactive gas can enter and collect in your house especially if it’s not well-ventilated. It can be through cracks in the foundation, plumbing penetrations, and even small holes.
Fortunately, there are several contractors around the globe that offer radon reduction systems. Two ways are suction and sealing but the reduction systems may vary for every house type.
5. You can monitor radon in real time!
Having your home tested is the only way to know if you or your family is at risk of high radon exposure. It’s important to have a proactive approach to reduce the risk of long-term effects like lung cancer.
Looking for area radiation monitors or personal radiation monitoring devices? You can count on SensaWeb. With our monitors, you can easily detect and interdict radioactive materials. Connect with us here https://www.sensaweb.com.au/contact/ or our email address: info@sensaweb.com.au. You can also call us at +61 415 409 467.