Radon Diagnosis Based on Investigation of Radon Sources and Radon Entry in Houses

The search for practical techniques to reduce radon levels in dwellings led to the development of a method for identifying radon sources and pathways of transfer to upper floors. A pilot study in Brittany was carried out in some houses with relatively high radon levels. This study involved measurement of radon gas concentrations in the air, radon exhalation rates from the soil and walls (indoors and outdoors), the potential alpha energy concentration of radon daughters, and the ventilation rate. The structural characteristics of dwellings and the influence of the lifestyle of the occupants were examined. Analysis of the results shows that a limited number of parameters can be selected for use in rapid radon diagnosis.