Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is produced by the decay of uranium in the soil. It is colorless and odorless and can accumulate unnoticed in buildings, especially in basements and ground floors. Concentrations can vary greatly depending on the region and soil conditions.
The problem: Radon is invisible and often goes unnoticed, yet it can pose a serious long-term health risk.
How does radon affect the body?
Radon itself is not toxic, but its radioactive decay products, known as radon daughter products, are deposited in the lungs when the gas is inhaled. These emit radiation that damages lung tissue.
Long-term exposure can alter the DNA of lung cells and increase the risk of lung cancer. According to studies, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. The risk increases significantly for smokers in particular, as the combined effect of tobacco smoke and radon damages cells even more severely.
Who is particularly at risk?
The following are particularly at risk:
- Residents of basements or ground floors: Radon usually enters buildings from the ground, which is why lower floors are more heavily contaminated.
- People in areas with high radon concentrations: Some regions are particularly vulnerable due to their geology.
- Smokers: Tobacco smoke significantly increases the effects of radon.
- People who spend a lot of time indoors. The longer the exposure, the higher the risk.
Radon limits and reference values in Germany
To limit the health risk posed by radon, legal reference values apply in Germany and the EU. These are based on the Radiation Protection Act.
For indoor living spaces and workplaces, the reference value is 300 becquerels per cubic meter (Bq/m³) as an annual average. If this value is exceeded, measures must be taken to reduce the radon concentration.
For comparison:
- Below 100 Bq/m³, the contamination is considered low.
- Between 100 and 300 Bq/m³, there is an increased risk, especially with long-term exposure.
- Above 300 Bq/m³, structural or technical measures are strongly recommended or mandatory.
It is important to note that the reference value refers to the annual average. Short-term measurements can show significant fluctuations and are therefore less meaningful than long-term measurements taken over several months.
Measures for protection against radon
There are several ways to reduce indoor radon exposure:
- Regular ventilation: Simple ventilation significantly reduces the concentration, especially in basements and ground floors.
- Sealing floor slabs and cracks: This prevents radon from entering the rooms from the subsoil.
- Mechanical ventilation systems: Ventilation systems with radon extraction can significantly reduce concentrations.
- Continuous measurement: Only those who know the radon levels can take effective action. A one-time test provides some information, but measurements taken over longer periods of time are more meaningful.
How air-Q can help with radon
The air-Q air quality monitor is not only an all-rounder for pollutants, CO₂, and particulates, but can also continuously monitor radon levels. It provides an early warning as soon as radon levels rise and at the same time enables long-term monitoring so that trends can be identified and protective measures planned in a targeted manner. The clear display shows when ventilation or other measures are necessary. This allows you to keep an eye on your air quality at all times and significantly reduce the health risks posed by radon.
Radon is a silent but serious health hazard. People who spend a lot of time in basements and smokers should be especially careful. Preventive measures, continuous monitoring, and smart devices like air-Q can significantly reduce the risk of lung cancer. Monitoring and prevention are the most effective steps you can take to make sure your indoor air is safe.
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