The Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) is launching a key study on radon and thoron exposure in homes. But what exactly are these radioactive gases?
What Are Radon and Thoron?
Radon occurs naturally worldwide as a radioactive gas with two main forms: radon and thoron. Both decay, producing further radioactive particles.
Radon and Thoron in Homes
These gases exist in outdoor air at low levels, originating from soil and materials like building products. In homes, radiation primarily comes from building materials, with smaller amounts entering via crawl spaces or outside air. Levels can build up indoors, posing a small but real lung cancer risk over time.
The Research
Earlier assumptions held that home levels were low, but 2011 data revealed variations across homes. Thoron is often misidentified as radon. This new RIVM study will equip 3,000 homes with specialized meters to accurately measure exposure.
Read more about radon and thoron on the RTL Nieuws website.
