BBC News is reporting about radon detectors being installed at one of Scotland’s most popular tourist attractions, the 13th century Urquhart Castle. Essentially, the sensors will be used to test the site for high levels of radon gas. It turns out that areas nearby including the Glen Urquhart High School in Drumnadrochit were found to be plagued by a remarkably high presence of radon – seven times the recommended amount to be exact.
Why Are Radon Detectors Being Installed?
Photo by Kieran Lamb
Most of the castle is actually outdoors so elevated levels aren’t expected throughout the entire property, as radon poses the biggest threat in confined spaces. Just the underground visitor centre is going to be monitored for a period of three months. Sensors, otherwise known as radon detectors, will be installed primarily as a precaution because of the test results from affected areas nearby.
Historic Scotland, who know owns the castle property, believes that the site itself is at a very low risk for radon. Since the fortress sees more than 300,000 visitors and tourists per year that’s certainly welcome news. The detectors should allow concerned parties to monitor levels on the site nonetheless.
Historic Scotland also spoke about the issue, stating that they are taking the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of guests and employees spending time at the site.
“According to the British Geological Survey radon risk map, Urquhart Castle and visitor centre are not in a high risk area for radon gas. As such, a test has not been undertaken before. However, in response to recent reported cases in the area, we have arranged for a test to be undertaken. The health and safety of our staff and visitors is of paramount importance and something we aim to preserve at all times.”
Radon Detectors Being Installed Urquhart Castle
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, which in itself has an exceptionally high mortality rate. That is because lung cancer symptoms don’t begin to appear until after patients have been ill for quite some time. In fact, in most cases by the time symptoms are recognized the disease has reached an incurable state.
Even worse, there are no short term symptoms of radon poisoning. Just being around high levels increases the risk of cancer – that risks increases even more so in those who have been exposed to tobacco smoke, or smoke themselves.
It’s also a common misconception that radon levels in nearby areas are an indication of what local test results may show. While there are some patterns based on geographic location, high levels of radon can pretty much be found anywhere. All residence and business owners should test their properties at least twice a year.
As for Urquhart Castle, the sensors will reveal in a few months time whether or not there are problems on the site.
Via: BBC News
