The A. Proctor Group has over 20 years of experience providing solutions for the development of brownfield land and an extensive range of products and solutions that will cater to most scenarios from ground gases, including Radon. In this article, Mathew Spiller, National Technical Sales Manager — Ground Gas Protection, highlights the latest guidance on protective measures for new buildings to reduce the risk of radon.
Radon is a naturally occurring, colourless and odourless radioactive gas. It is the UK’s second largest cause of lung cancer after smoking (1,200 deaths per year, according to the UKHSA). The principal source of Radon guidance in the UK is the BRE document “BR211 Radon: guidance on protective measures for new buildings”. The latest update of BR211 (including supplementary advice for extensions, conversions and refurbishment projects) 2023”, went live on 6th June.
Some of the key changes that contractors should note are listed below.
The minimum thickness of protective membranes has been increased from 0.3mm to 0.4mm to ensure that Radon membranes are robust enough to survive the on-site installation process. This moves guidance in line with BBA certification requirements.
One product that meets the new criteria is Protech Radon 400, which is a 0.4mm thick, virgin lDPE membrane with polyester reinforcing scrim to ensure the highest level of robustness. To date, installers have been very positive about the application and performance of the membrane.
Following installation, it is important that the Radon protective measures are inspected and signed off by a competent validator. this allows any poor joints or damaged areas to be repaired prior to covering up.
More information on Protech Radon 400 here: www.proctorgroup.com/products/protech-radon-400
Earlier in the year A. Proctor Group shared an article looking at the true cost of simplifying the roofing detail. You can read that article here.
