Radon protection for new large buildings GG 75
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 large buildings (GG 75 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 the 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 other areas.
Building regulations covering radon-protective measures in the UK 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. Initially, protective measures were only required in new dwellings, but more recently the requirements have been extended to include all building types, extensions, conversions and major alterations in areas affected by radon.
This 8-page Good Building Guide gives practical advice about the installation of radon-protective measures in new large buildings (eg workplaces). It replaces the guidance published in 2009 and should be read in conjunction with BRE Report BR 211, Radon: guidance on protective measures for new buildings.
Its contents are:
- What is radon and why consider it for new large buildings?
- Requirements for radon protection and radon reduction.
- Protective measures.
- Basic radon protection.
- Full radon protection.
- Radon barriers.
- High water table and tanking to basements and cellars.
- Subfloor ventilation.
- Subfloor depressurisation and sumps.
- Monitoring completed buildings.
- References.
- Further reading.
[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 dwellings GG 74.
- Radon solutions in older homes GR 38.
- Site appraisal.
- Site investigation.
- Soil survey.
- Solid and liquid contaminants risk assessments.
- Subfloor.
Featured articles and news
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.