Press Release
Free radon tests
Residents in parts of Shetland are being offered free radon tests this week, in a project funded by the Scottish Government.
Commenting on the scheme, the Council’s Environmental Health Services Manager, Maggie Dunne said “Homes in Shetland have a lower potential for elevated radon levels compared with many other local authorities areas. The main areas in Scotland with elevated radon levels continue to be parts of Aberdeenshire, Highland and Orkney. However, research suggests that a few areas in Shetland have levels of radon that are above the level where work would be recommended to protect people. So, this week, Shetland Islands Council, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) and NHS Shetland are teaming up to write to residents in these areas to offer a free test. In other areas, residents can obtain tests for £41.28 including VAT from Environmental Health at the Council. That’s £8 cheaper than the standard price.”
The radon testing kit is sent by post with full instructions and contains two small circular plastic monitors. These are placed in the main living area and in a bedroom in normal use, to measure occupants’ exposure to radon.
After three months the monitors are returned to the HPA in a pre-paid envelope supplied. Results will be given in writing, with advice on whether any action is needed to reduce the health risk.
Ms Dunne, “We’re planning a number of advice days throughout the Islands for any residents advised to reduce their radon levels. Householders will be able to discuss their results with experts from the Council, the HPA and the Building Research Establishment and get information and impartial advice. It’s easy to reduce radon levels by improving ventilation”.
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas, which is colourless, odourless and tasteless. However, it is known to increase the lifetime risk of lung cancer, so testing is seen as a “sensible precaution” by the Health Protection Agency (HPA). Neil McColl, head of the radon projects team at the HPA, said: “These tests provide a report on the level of radon in your home. As the technology exists to reduce radon levels and hence the associated risks, we believe testing is a sensible precaution.”
For further information on radon-related issues, see the HPA’s radon website, www.ukradon.org, www.hpa.org.uk , or email radon@hpa.org.uk. or call 01235 822622
For information on reduced rate testing or for any radon-related queries, contact the Environmental Health Service on 01595 744800 or e-mail ehadmin@shetland.gov.uk