Insufficient testing of radon households

More then 80,000 households which were identified as being at risk from dangerously high levels of radon gas in a national survey, have never been tested for the cancer causing substance, despite survey having concluded more then a decade ago.

That is among the key findings of a National Radon Forum held by the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII) today.

The Forum also heard that at current rates of testing it could take more than 400 years to assess the remaining households for the naturally occurring gas which is linked to 200 lung cancer deaths each year.

Chief executive of the RPII Dr Ann McGarry said the lack of enthusiasm for testing was exposing householders to "unnecessary risks".

While the forum heard local authorities had general responsibility for testing their own housing stock - and were potentially liable for the health effects of inhabitants - Dr McGarry said 80 per cent of the homes affected were privately owned, and home owners needed to take action for their own safety.

"Currently, the vast majority of homeowners have not had their home measured for radon and therefore have no idea of their risk of lung cancer from this radioactive gas. It is clear that the rate of measurement has to increase and that homeowners need to get a measurement made as a first step in reducing their risk" she said.

The forum was also told one measure which would bring testing rapidly into line would be to include radon testing with building energy certification, which is now a standard test when homes are being sold.

Dr McGarry said reducing the risk to the public from radon would require a national strategy and a multi agency team.

However, Minister of State with responsibility for housing Michael Finneran maintained there had been good progress in relation to radon.

"To date there has been good co-operation between state agencies on reducing the risk from radon. It is important now that this co-operation is developed into a cohesive national strategy to tackle this problem effectively" he said.

Detailed information on radon and its risks, including information on how to get your home or workplace tested for radon is available on the RPII's website www.rpii.ie or on freephone 1800 300 600.