Radon revealed: The hidden connection between construction and contamination in Jazan region

Abstract

Indoor radon levels, when high, can silently set the stage for lung cancer. Many are actively searching for the reason behind these spikes in radon in our living spaces. The investigation includes buildings in the picturesque Jazan region, where we use the advanced CR-39 solid-state detector. We explored houses built using two interesting methods: traditional soil compaction, innovative pore filling, and simple columns only. Surprisingly, houses built using soil pressure have always remained safe. However, as summer arrived in the Jazan region, 16% of homes with columns revealed radon levels above international safety lines. Even more surprising is that the summer radiation doses in 32% of these homes exceeded international standards. In contrast, pore-filling homes showed unwavering integrity throughout the year. The results showed that the average concentration of radon gas in the first type decreased from 358.97 Bq/cm3 in summer to 209.36 Bq/cm3 in winter. As for the second type, the concentration of radon gas decreased from 153.67 Bq/cm3 in the summer to 88.67 Bq/cm3 in the winter. This study highlights the profound impact of building and home ventilation strategies on radon levels. By combining soil compaction and the tuff layer, we ensure that Jazan homes have a healthy, radon-free environment. Furthermore, constant, up-to-date ventilation is key to staying healthy and radon-free during the hot summer months. It is advised that research into various building types worldwide be continued to determine the most secure method of construction that can lessen gas leakage from the ground and preserve public health. Future research should also look into how different building designs and ventilation systems affect radioactive contamination levels.