Radon: Guidance on protective measures for new buildings BR 211
BRE (Building Research Establishment) is an independent, research-based consultancy, testing and training organisation, operating in the built environment and associated industries.
On 6 November 2015, BRE published Radon: Guidance on protective measures for new buildings (BR 211- 2015 edition), written by Chris Scivyer.
Approved document C, Site preparation and resistance to contaminants and moisture, describes radon as:
| …a naturally occurring radioactive colourless and odourless gas which is formed in small quantities by radioactive decay wherever uranium and radium are found. It can move through the subsoil and so into buildings. Some parts of the country, notably the West Country, have higher levels than elsewhere. Exposure to high levels for long periods increases the risk of developing lung cancer. To reduce this risk all new buildings, extensions and conversions, whether residential or non-domestic, built in areas where there may be elevated radon emissions, may need to incorporate precautions against radon. |
BR 211 provides guidance for reducing the concentration of radon in new buildings, extensions, conversions, and refurbishment projects, and so reducing the risk of occupants being exposed to it. It is intended for use in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and supports building regulations for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and building standards for Scotland.
It was originally published in 1991 and was subsequently amended in 1992, 1999 and 2007. The 2015 edition replaces previous editions and two earlier guidance documents:
- BRE Report BR 376, Radon: guidance on protective measures for new dwellings in Scotland, introduced in 1999.
- BRE Report BR 413, Radon: guidance on protective measures for new dwellings in Northern Ireland, introduced in 2001.
Its contents are:
- Introduction.
- National building regulation guidance.
- Protective measures.
- Determining the level of protection.
- Protective measures: technical approach.
- Detailed protective measures.
- References and further reading.
- Appendix A: Maps of areas where basic or full protection should be provided.
- Appendix B: Radon protective measures quality management checklist.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Approved Document C.
- BRE articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- BRE Buzz articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- Brownfield land.
- Building on fill.
- Building Research Establishment BRE.
- Contaminated land.
- Cover systems for land regeneration - thickness of cover systems for contaminated land (BR465).
- Deleterious materials.
- Ground conditions.
- Landfill tax.
- Methane and other gasses from the ground.
- Pollution.
- Radon.
- Radon protection for new domestic extensions and conservatories with solid concrete ground floors (GG 73 revised).
- Radon protection for new dwellings GG 74.
- Radon protection for new large buildings GG 75.
- Radon solutions in older homes GR 38.
- Site appraisal.
- Site investigation.
- Soil survey.
- Solid and liquid contaminants risk assessments.
Featured articles and news
CIOB launches global mental health survey
To address the silent mental health crisis in construction.
New categories in sustainability, health and safety, and emerging talent.
Key takeaways from the BSRIA Briefing 2024
Not just waiting for Net Zero, but driving it.
The ISO answer to what is a digital twin
Talking about digital twins in a more consistent manner.
Top tips and risks to look out for.
New Code of Practice for fire and escape door hardware
Published by GAI and DHF.
Retrofit of Buildings, a CIOB Technical Publication
Pertinent technical issues, retrofit measures and the roles involved.
New alliance will tackle skills shortage in greater Manchester
The pioneering Electrotechnical Training and Careers Alliance.
Drone data at the edge: three steps to better AI insights
Offering greater accuracy and quicker access to insights.
From fit-out to higher-risk buildings.
Heritage conservation in Calgary
The triple bottom line.
College of West Anglia apprentice wins SkillELECTRIC gold.
Scottish government launch delivery plan
To strengthen planning and tackle the housing emergency.
How people react in ways which tend to restore their comfort.
Comfort is a crucial missing piece of the puzzle.
ECA launches Recharging Electrical Skills Charter in Wales
Best solutions for the industry and electrical skills in Wales.
New homebuilding skills hub launch and industry response
Working with CITB and NHBC to launch fast track training.