Radonova Laboratories continues to expand with the announcment of a new division in Poland. Based on its strategy of appointing local specialists and partners to manage specific territories, Radonova continues to remain at the forefront of increasing awareness of the health risks associated with radon exposure, while also providing reliable, accredited measurement services.
As in many other European countries, Polish regulations have recently been amended due to the implementation of the BSS Directive. Consequently, there is increased dialogue on the dangers of radon exposure which is leading to a greater demand for radon measurements. In response to this, Radonova has spread its operations to Poland to provide industry leading technology and reliable radon measurement techniques and procedures. Across Europe, the company endeavours to ensure that the general public fully understands the implications of radon levels in their homes and workplaces.
The new division will be headed up by Zuzanna Podgórska – an experienced specialist in radon dosimetry who is well versed on local conditions and requirements.
“Changing the law, in my opinion, is the first step to raising awareness of the health risks that direct exposure to radon can cause. However, we have a long way to go before measurements become routine. It will be my role to broaden awareness in Poland, and make radon less of a niche field”, comments Zuzanna Podgórska.
“The crucial point is to provide efficient processes, service and quality. That’s why it is very important to choose a service provider who is ISO accreditated, meaning the validity of the radon data obtained from devices is recognized internationally as they are rigorously tested on a regular basis by independent third parties. It is the only way to ensure people are 100% confident that their measurements are valid and conducted in a laboratory that maintains exacting standards”, concludes Zuzanna Podgórska.
Radonova Laboratories CEO Karl Nilsson said: “By working with Zuzanna, we continue to expand our global presence at a time when the demand for reliable radon measurements increases. Zuzanna is a market specialist who brings a vast amount of experience to the table, her expertise will provide us with a strong presence in Poland. Ultimately, we want to raise awareness of the availability of our radon measurement technologies so that the dangers of radon exposure can be mitigated.”
Zuzanna Podgórska has worked as a specialist in the Central Laboratory for Radiological Protection since 2013. She has a master’s degree from Warsaw University of Technology, where she studied passive radon detectors. Her PhD studies were in the Nuclear Physics department working on geological radon mapping. She is involved in teaching and the popularization of science and has wide experience in the field of radiation protection. She is a qualified Radiation Protection Inspector.
What is radon?
Radon is a radioactive gas that leaks from the ground and in some cases comes from building materials. Depending on the ground beneath the house and the type of building construction, harmful high concentrations of radon can occur. Radon is a health risk that, after smoking, is the most common cause of lung cancer. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 3% – 14% of all lung cancer cases are caused by radon depending on where you live. WHO recommends a limit value for radon content of 100 Bq / m3. Globally, an estimated 230,000 people are affected each year by lung cancer as a result of long-term exposure to radon.
