Key Facts about: Radioactivity
Natural sources: Radon
United Kingdom
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas which comes out of the ground.
Based on a 5km grid, this map shows the geographical variation for indoor radon levels across the United Kingdom
In the open air, radon is dispersed but it can accumulate in buildings. The gas decays into minute solid particles which, if breathed in, can be deposited on the surface of the lungs and increase the risk of lung cancer.
- it is believed to be the second most important cause of lung cancer after smoking
- around 5 per cent UK deaths from lung cancer each year are attributable to radon
- the average annual dose to a person in this country is 1.3 mSv
- the average indoor concentration of radon gas is 20 Bq/m³
- however, high concentrations are found in some areas and some (with concentrations above the Action level of 200 Bq/m³) have been designated as radon Affected Areas including: Cornwall, Devon Somerset, Derbyshire and Northamptonshire in England, in parts of Highland and Aberdeenshire in Scotland, the south-east corner of Northern Ireland and in some parts of Wales.
In Detail:
Natural Sources of radiation: Radon-222 sources of radiation
Further Information:
- Source:
- National Radiological Protection Board
The map has been published in the booklet Health Risks from Radon - Frequently asked questions and answers relating to radon and buildings:
- Building Research Establishment Ltd (BRE) Radon help line: 01923 664707
- Key Facts:
- Sources,
- Natural sources:
- Gamma,
- Cosmic,
- Food and drink
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Page last modified: 16 September 2003
Page published: 10 September 2003