A new Austrian recommendation guide for radon prevention in the design and construction of new buildings in areas with highly elevated radon levels

Abstract

The identification and localization of extremely high indoor air radon levels in the village of Umhausen (Tyrol, Austria) in 1992 led to the urgent need for adequate radon prevention guidelines for the architects of new buildings taking into account the very high radon potential in this specific area. Therefore a team of architects, scientists and engineers created a manual with detailed descriptions and recommendations of adequate radon prevention measures for the design and construction of new buildings in this area on behalf of and financially supported by the Government of Tyrol. The scientific background, the technical methods, and the practical implementation of the recommended prevention measures are shown. The first experiences with the practical implementation of the new guide, the financial implications for the builder, and the most important aspects of the general application of the proposed radon prevention principles are discussed.