Radon mitigation in the workplace in Spain: a cross-sectional interview-based study

Objective

To evaluate radon mitigation frequency and possible determinants for mitigation among employers in Spain, before the new regulation came into force. We also aimed to assess the reasons for not mitigating radon.

Method

In this cross-sectional study, participants were systematically identified from all employers in Spain who had previously measured occupational radon through the Galician Radon Laboratory from 2015 until 2022. Employers responsible for at least one workplace where radon levels exceeded 300 Bq/m³ were included. Participants were interviewed via phone call by a trained interviewer. The information was recorded using an ad hoc questionnaire created as a result of a review. We analyzed mitigation frequency according to working sector, company size and maximum radon levels found. Reasons for not mitigating were ranked according to frequency.

Results

We interviewed 32 employers (response rate 91%). Overall mitigation frequency was 53%. Mitigation frequency increased with the company size. For workplaces ≥1000 Bq/m³ mitigation frequency was 67%. Lack of perception of radon as a health risk was the main reason for not mitigating.

Conclusions

Enhancing radon mitigation frequency in the workplace is a major area of improvement. We are of the opinion that employers need guidance and availability of mitigation services to comply with the new regulatory requirements in Spain.