Update to Radon Potential Maps for Great Britain – What are the implications?

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the British Geological Survey (BGS) published an updated radon potential map for Great Britain on the 1st December 2022.
The updated map identifies several areas of England, Scotland and Wales where radon protection classifications may have changed to a level where radon protection is now required, where previously it was not the case. There are no transitional provisions in place for the implementation to the new mapping and, as such, the information is applicable to all new sites and those already under construction at the time of their introduction.
Radon is a naturally occurring colourless, odourless, radioactive gas which is formed by the decay of the small amounts of uranium that occur naturally in soils and rocks. Radon levels outdoors are low everywhere, but levels indoors within enclosed spaces can be higher. Inhalation can lead to lung cancer. The amount of radon present depends on the site geology, so our exposure to radon varies significantly depending on where we live.
The NHBC issued a technical update at the end of January 2023 detailing requirements for assessing radon protection measures for sites registered prior to 1st December 2022 and those commencing construction from the 1st February 2023.
For sites registered prior to 1st December 2022, the radon risk may have changed and this will need to be re-assessed.
If you are unsure whether you site is now affected or if you have any questions you would like to discuss with one of our geoenvironmental engineers, please get in touch.