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RADON in County Sligo

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas which originates from the decay of small amounts of Radium, which itself is a radioactive decay product of uranium. It is colourless, odourless and tasteless and can only be measured using special equipment. It is found in all soils and rocks, to some degree, but the amount can vary in different parts of the country and at different times of the year. When radon surfaces in the open air, it is quickly diluted to harmless concentrations. However once it enters an enclosed space, such as a house or other building, it can sometimes accumulate to unacceptably high levels depending on the concentration of Radon in the underlying geology and the construction details of the building. 

Sligo is one of a number of counties with a particularly high Radon level – a high radon area is any area where the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII) national survey indicates that more than 10% of the houses are likely to have a radon level exceeding the National Reference Level of 200Bq/m3. Under the Building Regulations the provision of a Radon Barrier and Sump in a dwelling house are mandatory when these conditions prevail.

The provision of a radon barrier is not mandatory in certain parts of Sligo – mainly North Sligo - –where a sump only is required - which according to maps - Sligo Radon Map from the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland falls below the National Reference Level. All developers are advised to install the appropriate radon barriers along with the sump in these areas as well as throughout the rest of the county.

SCC have no role in the monitoring of Radon in existing houses, as this area is covered by the RPII, and further information can be obtained via the following link. Radon Information from the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland RPII. Monitoring kits and expert advice can be sourced from this body. The council do however deal with queries from the public on a regular basis and advise on radon protection with regard to the Building Regs. It is an area given priority by SCC when carrying out site inspections as the Building Control Authority.

SCC are very conscious of the threat posed by Radon and welcome close cooperation with the RPII and it is certainly our intention to be proactive in conjunction with the RPII in dealing with this threat.