The methods
Short-term survey or passive detectors: which approach?
You do not have to choose a measurement method on your own. A short-term survey helps us understand the building promptly; passive detectors extend or confirm the results over a longer period.
Describe my situation| Comparison | In-depth short-term survey | Recognised measurement with passive detectors |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Identify a problem, analyse fluctuations and understand likely entry points and how radon moves through the building. | Assess the average concentration under the applicable protocol and confirm the situation over a longer period. |
| Arrangements | Simultaneous measurements in all rooms in contact with the ground, with points on upper floors depending on the building. | Passive detectors in rooms selected according to their use and the protocol. |
| Duration in a home | Approximately one week; conditions and timing are considered when interpreting the results. | One year is recommended, or at least 90 days during the heating season, from October to March. |
| Possible next steps | Mitigation proposal if a problem is identified; passive detectors if concentrations are low or results are intermediate. | Technical survey if results reveal a problem requiring potential solutions to be assessed. |
| After the work | Monitoring before and after the work to observe its effect and adjust the settings. | Confirmation of the results through a recognised measurement according to the applicable schedule. |
This guidance concerns homes. Schools, nurseries and workplaces have specific protocols. Prices are set out in the quotation according to the agreed scope.
No previous measurements: choose the right starting point
We consider the location, building characteristics, room use, planned work and your timeframe. If there are few risk indicators and no urgency, passive detector measurements may be proposed.
Risk factors, a renovation project or a need to understand the building promptly may favour an in-depth short-term survey.
A high result: prepare solutions
We first review the available results. Simultaneous electronic monitoring then allows us to compare rooms, identify likely entry points and understand how radon spreads.
This survey provides the technical basis for a suitable mitigation proposal. Any further investigations or confirmation needed are specified.
Extend and confirm the assessment at the right time
When concentrations are low during the survey, passive detectors can confirm the result over a longer period. They are also offered when the findings call for further assessment.
After mitigation, monitoring before and after the work and the report document its effect. A passive detector campaign is arranged to confirm the results through a recognised measurement. Protocols differ for homes, schools and workplaces.
Your questions
Does an electronic monitor automatically provide an official measurement?
No. The equipment alone does not determine the status of a measurement: the protocol and conditions under which it is carried out matter.
Further reading: FOPH — Measuring radon concentrations ↗
An initial discussion
What about yourbuilding?
A measurement, a result, a question. Let’s start there.