Radon potential refers to the likelihood of radon gas released from the ground accumulating in buildings. The radon potential of an area is influenced by several factors, including the concentration of uranium and thorium in the soil, the soil's permeability, and the presence of geological features such as faults and fractures that can facilitate the movement of radon gas. High radon potential areas are those where the geological and environmental conditions are conducive to the release and accumulation of radon, posing a higher risk of indoor radon exposure. Assessing radon potential is crucial for identifying areas where radon mitigation measures may be necessary to protect public health.
In addition to the indoor radon map ARPANSA also provides a radon potential map of Australia. This map is based on work produced by ANSTO for Australia’s radon exhalation that is used in atmospheric modelling (Griffiths et al., 2010.). This map is designed to provide a more comprehensive understanding of radon distribution and its potential impact on public health. The radon potential map is based on a combination of geological data, soil characteristics, and radon flux measurements. The map highlights areas with varying levels of radon potential.
