Radon protection for new dwellings GG 74
BRE (Building Research Establishment) is an independent, research-based consultancy, testing and training organisation, operating in the built environment and associated industries.
Radon protection for new dwellings (GG 74 revised) was written by Chris Scivyer and published by BRE on 13 January 2015.
Radon is a natural, colourless, odourless, radioactive gas formed by the radioactive decay of small amounts of uranium that occur naturally in all rocks and soils. It can move through cracks and fissures in the subsoil and eventually to the atmosphere. Most of this radon will disperse harmlessly, but some will collect in spaces under or within buildings.
For most UK residents, radon accounts for half the annual radiation they receive. Exposure to particularly high levels of radon may increase the risk of developing lung cancer. While it is recognised that the air inside every building contains radon, some buildings in certain areas of the UK might have unacceptably high concentrations unless precautions are taken. South-west England is of principal concern, but high concentrations of radon are also found in many other areas.
Building regulations covering radon-protective measures for new dwellings were first introduced for south-west England in the late 1980s, for Derbyshire and Northamptonshire in the early 1990s and for the rest of England, Scotland and Northern Ireland in the late 1990s.
This 8-page BRE Good Building Guide gives practical advice about the installation of radon-protective measures in new dwellings. It replaces the guidance published in 2008.
It should be read in conjunction with BRE Report BR 211, Radon: guidance on protective measures for new buildings. Two companion guides cover radon protection of new domestic extensions and conservatories and radon protection of new large buildings such as workplaces.
Its contents are:
- What is radon and why consider it for new dwellings?
- Requirements for radon-protective measures.
- Avoiding problems and getting it right.
- Radon protective measurement for new dwellings.
- References.
- Further reading.
[edit] Find out more.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- BRE articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- BRE Buzz articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- BRE Buzz.
- BREEAM.
- Building Research Establishment.
- Methane and other gasses from the ground.
- Radon.
- Radon: Guidance on protective measures for new buildings BR 211.
- Radon protection for new domestic extensions and conservatories with solid concrete ground floors (GG 73 revised).
- 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
Ending decades of frustration, misinformation and distrust.
Essential tools in managing historically significant landscapes.
Classroom electrician courses a 'waste of money'
Say experts from the Electrical Contractors’ Association.
Wellbeing in Buildings TG 10/2025
BSRIA topic guide updates.
With brief background and WELL v2™.
From studies, to books to a new project, with founder Emma Walshaw.
Types of drawings for building design
Still one of the most popular articles the A-Z of drawings.
Who, or What Does the Building Safety Act Apply To?
From compliance to competence in brief.
The remarkable story of a Highland architect.
Commissioning Responsibilities Framework BG 88/2025
BSRIA guidance on establishing clear roles and responsibilities for commissioning tasks.
An architectural movement to love or hate.
Don’t take British stone for granted
It won’t survive on supplying the heritage sector alone.
The Constructing Excellence Value Toolkit
Driving value-based decision making in construction.
Meet CIOB event in Northern Ireland
Inspiring the next generation of construction talent.
Reasons for using MVHR systems
6 reasons for a whole-house approach to ventilation.