Radon Statistics UK: Deaths, Exposure and Action Levels

How many deaths are attributed to radon?

UKHSA attributes approximately 1,100 UK lung cancer deaths each year to radon. This is an estimate of the population burden from long-term exposure.

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas. Its decay products can damage lung tissue when inhaled, and the risk is greatest for smokers and former smokers. UKradon describes radon as contributing around half of average radiation exposure from all sources.

Radon levels in homes

The average concentration in UK homes is approximately 20 Bq/m³. The home Action Level is 200 Bq/m³ and the Target Level is 100 Bq/m³, expressed as annual averages.

UKHSA recommends reducing concentrations at or above the Action Level and aiming below the Target Level where practical. It also advises considering reductions between those levels, particularly where a smoker or former smoker lives. The thresholds guide action while risk changes with exposure.

Radon in workplaces

HSE guidance applies an annual-average threshold above 300 Bq/m³ under the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017. Work above that concentration requires notification. Employers should assess and restrict exposure and normally seek advice from a radiation protection adviser with radon experience.

Measurement should be considered in affected-area workplaces and occupied below-ground spaces. HSE guidance includes below-ground spaces used for more than about 50 hours a year or containing an open water source.

What the radon map shows

The UKHSA/BGS map estimates the probability of elevated indoor radon using geology and measurements. Its December 2022 update covers England, Wales and Scotland; Northern Ireland was outside that update.

The map helps identify where testing is particularly relevant. An address-level assessment and a test in the building provide more specific information than a county-wide description or a neighbour’s result.

Testing and reducing radon

UKHSA’s standard home test uses detectors in a living area and an occupied bedroom for three months. The results estimate annual average exposure. Occupied basements deserve particular attention, including outside mapped affected areas.

Reduction methods can include an active sump or changes to underfloor ventilation. The appropriate method depends on the building and measured level. Testing after the work checks whether the reduction has been successful.

Frequently asked questions

How many UK deaths are attributed to radon each year?

UKHSA estimates around 1,100 annual lung cancer deaths attributable to radon. This is an estimate of the long-term population burden.

What is the radon Action Level for a home?

The home Action Level is 200 Bq/m³ as an annual average. The Target Level used when reducing concentrations is 100 Bq/m³.

How long does a home radon test take?

The standard UKHSA home test uses detectors for three months to estimate annual average exposure.