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Radon fears for Inishowen homes 10.11.08

HOMEOWNERS in Donegal including Inishowen are being urged to have their homes tested for the cancer-causing gas, radon.
The advice comes from the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII) whose research shows that over 5 per cent of homes in Donegal exceed acceptable levels. Radon is the second biggest cause of lung cancer in Ireland and causes up to 200 deaths per year.
The RPII measured just over 1000 houses in County Donegal and, on average, 5 per cent of these had been found to exceed the acceptable level of 200 becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m3). The maximum level found in a home in Donegal was over 500 Bq/m3 which is equivalent to the radiation dose from two chest X-rays per day.
RPII chief executive Dr. Ann McGarry explained: “It is relatively easy for homeowners to reduce their health risk from exposure to radon gas. A simple measurement test can identify the level of gas in the home and if high levels are found then it is relatively cheap to fix the problem.
I would urge members of the public to measure their home for radon immediately.”
To test your home, two radon detectors must be purchased from the RPII at a cost of €56. One is placed in a bedroom and the other in a living room for no less than three months. They are then sent back to the RPII for analysis. Detailed information on radon and its risks, including information on how to get your home or workplace tested for radon is available on the RPII’s website rpii.ie or on freefone 1800 300 600.
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