Current status of programmes to measure and reduce radon exposure in Irishworkplaces

Abstract

National legislation, which implements European CouncilDirective 96/29/EURATOM in Ireland, sets a reference level of400 Bq m−3 averaged over any 3 month period for radon exposure in the workplace and also empowersthe Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland to direct employers to have radonmeasurements carried out. This legislation came into effect in May 2000. Radonmeasurements have already been completed in show caves and other undergroundworkplaces. Between 1998 and 2001, over 33 800 individual radon measurements werecarried out in all ground floor offices and classrooms in 3444 schools nationwide as part of aprogramme undertaken jointly with the Department of Education and Science.Where the average indoor radon concentration in one or more rooms exceeded200 Bq m−3, remedial measures were implemented. For concentrations up to400 Bq m−3 this involved increased ventilation while for higher concentrations an active sump wasnormally installed. The results of the survey, as well as the effectiveness of the differentremedial strategies, are discussed.In the case of other above ground workplaces, different approaches have been adopted. As afirst step, workplaces in two known high radon areas were directed to have radonmeasurements carried out. This programme had limited success because of problems inobtaining accurate workplace databases and a general lack of awareness on the part ofemployers of the issues involved. From a sample of 2610 employers directed tomeasure radon, only 408 actually completed measurements and 37 workplaceswere identified as having average 3 month average radon concentrations above400 Bq m−3. A total of 1356 employers ignored all correspondence, some of which was sent byregistered post and signed for on receipt.Current initiatives are focused on the provision of information and include newspaperadvertising as well as publications aimed specifically at both employer and employeerepresentative groups. The ability to provide accurate information that encourages bothmeasurement and remediation is seen as central to an effective radon workplaceprogramme.