While we often think about indoor pollutants such as particle pollution (PM2.5), Carbon Dioxide (CO2), etc, the quality of the indoor environments (IEQ) can also have a significant impact on our health through various sources of radiation exposure within our homes and workplaces. Radiation is not commonly investigated nor monitored indoors.

Beyond the Usual Suspects:

Let’s explore some unexpected sources:

• Frequent Flyers: Cosmic radiation exposure increases with altitude. While infrequent flights pose minimal risk, frequent flyers may experience slightly elevated radiation levels.
• Ground Elements: Radioactive elements like uranium naturally occur in soil and rocks. Depending on the geology of your area, these elements can seep into basements or crawlspaces, releasing radon gas, a known human carcinogen. Radon forms from the breakdown of uranium, radium, and thorium, which are naturally present in rocks, soil, and water. As radon gas seeps into buildings through cracks and gaps in foundations, it can accumulate to dangerous levels.
• Vintage Timekeepers: Those vintage watches with luminous dials might be harboring a radioactive secret. Radium or tritium, once used for illumination, can pose a health risk.
• Colorful Contaminants: Certain ceramics and glassware use glazes containing radioactive elements for vibrant colors. While generally “safe” when intact, chipping or breaking these items can release radioactive particles.
• Food: Bananas, spinach, oranges, beer, etc. all contain potassium K-40 which is a radioactive isotope that emits beta and gamma radiation. The dose of radioactivity they deliver is tiny and does not pose a health risk.
• Nuclear Power Plants: Nuclear power plants are heavily regulated and emit very low levels of radiation during normal operation. While unlikely, a serious accident at a nuclear power plant could release dangerous amounts of radiation.
• War Zones: Radiation exposure is a serious danger in a war zone if a nuclear weapon is detonated.