Short report. A survey of householders' mitigation strategy. Response to raised radon levels

Background: Many Irish homes have unacceptable levels of radon, but there is no information on mitigation actions. Methods: All householders in an urban area with levels above 200 Bq/m3 were surveyed and a 10% sample was interviewed; 141 of 233 (61%) responded. Results: Only 43% accurately recalled their radon level. Seventy-four percent sought advice, 9% consulted a mitigation professional and 6% completed home modification. Disincentives to action were indecision (41%) and expense (29%). Average knowledge of health risk was 9.48 of 12 items. Interviewees were concerned about impact on house value. Conclusions: Support is required for households with high radon levels to effect mitigation.