Radon (Rn) is a gas that derives from the decay of radium (naturally occurring in the soil), which is itself the product of the decay of uranium. From the soil where it originated, radon can infiltrate buildings through cracks in the walls or floors, and via electrical utility and drinking water ducts. Once inside, it can spread to all floors and rooms of the building.

The regulation of the radon problem is governed primarily by the Radiological Protection Act (RPA) of 22 March 1991, and the Radiological Protection Ordinance (RPO) of 22 June 1994, which emphasize the importance of preventing ionizing radiation risks, radon concentration limits in work and residential buildings, and measurement methods.

For more information visit the radon information page of the Federal Office of Public Health website: FOPH – Radon.

ECONS SA offers the following consulting activities:

• Analyses for new building projects
  • Analyses for radon and thoron in soil
  • Analyses during the excavation phase
  • Pre-test technical analyses
  • Official test analyses
• Technical analyses for the renovation of existing buildings
  • Consultation regarding technical documentation and site inspection.
  • Analyses for radon and thoron in soil/garden.
  • Exploratory measurements for the presence of radon in sensitive areas/rooms, to provide preliminary data for remediation work.
  • Targeted measurements at certain points at risk of radon entry, identified by the technical documentation study and site inspection, with the aim of detecting possible infiltration points and providing preliminary data for corrective actions.
• Remediation of buildings with excessive radon concentrations
  • Remediation project: corrective actions designed to prevent radon infiltration.
  • Post-remediation verification: measurements to test the effectiveness of the measures undertaken.