East Galway a hotspot for dangerous radon gas

The Tellus Programme, which carries geographical surveys from a low-flying plane, has confirmed that East Galway is covered in fractured limestone, whereas west Galway is characterised by granite rock.

However, in the west of the county, much of the granite is under a covering of peat, which allows the radon to be released without human health consequences.

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas with no colour, taste or smell which can increase the risk of developing lung cancer.  Outdoors, radon quickly dilutes to harmless concentrations but the gas can accumulate to unacceptably high concentrations within an enclosed space, including a house, if not detected.

While limestone does not contain much uranium, radon - which is soluble - can travel in water and then emerge through the fractures in the limestone rock.

“Fractured limestone can be exploited by naturally occurring radon gas leading to large radon accumulations within the overlying soil that can pose a threat to health,” said James.

The data has been passed to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) so that it can update its radon risk zones.

“The EPA have the existing radon maps and eventually, once the data on the models has been fully evaluated and we have enough information, they will adopt the more up to date maps,” stated the scientist.

“Now we’re not saying these areas definitely will have high levels of radon but depending on the radon barriers in place in the home – by even opening windows there will be less chance of high levels of radon – we’re urging people to get a radon test done to determine whether the levels are safe or not.”

The maps will serve as guidance for communities, planners, builders and house owners across the region and wider country. The Tellus data, which was collected last summer using the latest technology on-board a  distinctive low-flying airplane,  also reveals significant  information on the magnetic and electromagnetic properties of the underground rocks, soils and waters of south Mayo and Galway. The new data provides fresh insights into the ancient and complex rocks of Connemara including faults, folded rock formations and areas of previously undiscovered buried granite.

“This information is vital for improving the Geological Survey’s maps, which will be used to better understand the physical and chemical properties of the soil, rocks and water of Ireland.”

Minister of State for Natural Resources, Sean Kyne, said the survey confirms the EPA’s message that parts of Galway are at high risk from radon.

“Up to 250 cases of radon-related lung cancer are diagnosed in Ireland each year. The detailed data about the radon distribution in this area is a significant output from Tellus and will help better identify areas that are naturally more prone to this easily prevented risk,” the Fine Gael Minister said.

Radon test kits can also be purchased through the EPA. More information on the risks of radon exposure, advice on how to prevent and reduce radon levels in homes and buildings, can be found on the EPA’s website www.radon.ie.