Radon in buildings: A report on the situation in France

Robe M-C., Brenot J., Gambard J-P., Ielsch G., Haristoy D., Labed V., Beneito A., Thoreux A. Indoor+Built Environment 10 : 325-331, 2001

Radon is a radioactive gas of natural origin that tends to accumulate in buildings. Although the levels recorded can be reduced, this requires the co-operation of residents, and the French population has a very poor understanding of radon-induced risk. The justification for keeping a close watch on indoor radon concentrations is the underlying risk of lung cancer as a consequence of exposure to high levels. Two official statements dealing with radon risk management were issued in 1999 in France to define the thresholds that should not be exceeded. The results of measurement campaigns, the number of buildings where concentrations above this thresholds are likely to occur , the identification of high-radon potential areas and the actions taken locally together with the way that the risk from radon and remedial actions are perceived are reviewed herein.