Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 June 2022
209. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Finance the number of offices operated by his Department that are in high-risk areas for radon; the number that have been tested for radon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28574/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to inform the Deputy that the offices accommodating my Department are not included in a high-risk area, as identified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Although these buildings are located in the lowest EPA risk rated area, the safety and health of all staff is the priority within my Department.
Results from the last Department programme of Radon Gas testing showed no significant traces of Radon. Readings ranged from 10 to 36 Becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m3) and this very low level Radon Gas concentration is well within the 300 Bq/m3 limit provided for in the current legislation (SI 30 of 2019). Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, the Department – as an employer – has a general duty to identify hazards in the workplace and to take measures to minimise them. Officials from my Department will presently begin a new programme for testing for the presence and level of Radon Gas in the office workplace.
