A HOUSE in Co Kerry has recorded concentrations of the cancer-causing radioactive gas radon at some of the highest levels ever found in Europe, according to the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland.
The house, in the Castleisland area, has an average radon concentration of 37,000 becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m3), 185 times the acceptable level of 200 Bq/m3) for the gas.
In 2003, another house a few kilometres away recorded the highest reading for Ireland of 49,000 Bq/3), 185 times the acceptable level of 200 Bq/m3) for the gas.
Radon occurs naturally from the decay of uranium in rocks and soils.
Although it dilutes quickly outdoors in an enclosed space, the class-1 carcinogen can accumulate to high concentrations and increase the risk of lung cancer.
It is the second-biggest cause of cancer after smoking and is directly linked to about 200 deaths each year in Ireland.
The odourless, colourless and tasteless gas can only be revealed using special detectors.
Figures released yesterday by the radiological protection body show the gas has been found at high levels in a record number of homes across the country.
Almost 5,000 homes were tested in the nine-month period between September 1st, 2010, and June 1st this year and over 800 of those recorded high levels of the gas.
Some 18 were found to have levels 10 times the acceptable limit. These were located in Sligo (three), Tipperary (two), Galway (two), Cork (two), Wexford (two), Carlow (three), Donegal (one), Kerry (two), and Waterford (one).
Chief executive of the radiological protection body Dr Ann McGarry said the figures show there is a significant radon problem in the country and it is going unidentified in thousands of homes.
“Exposure to high radon levels causes lung cancer and many people are unknowingly living with very high levels in their homes.
“The only way people will know if it is in their homes is by testing,” Dr McGarry said.
To test for radon in a house, two special detectors are installed – one in a bedroom and the other in a living room – for a three-month period at a cost of about €50.
Moderate levels of the gas can be reduced by improving indoor ventilation.
An interactive map showing radon levels throughout the country is available at the radiological protection body’s website rpii.ie, and information about the gas or getting a measurement is available on freephone 1800-300600.
