More buildings with high radon levels

Eleven Orkney Islands Council premises have been shown to have higher than recommended levels of radon, according to the latest result from the OIC programme of testing.

An immediate programme of work will now be undertaken to reduce levels of radon to below the action levels.

The 11 buildings affected are: Aurrida House, Gilbertson Day Care, Papdale House, Point of Ness Campsite, Harbours office (Scapa), Orkney Ferries offices, Houton office / waiting room, Tingwall office / waiting Room, Smiddybrae, West Mainland Day Care Centre and Orkney Museum.

According to the OIC most other council facilities have been found to be below the action level, with the results for the remaining facilities expected shortly.

• Just last month the council contacted parents of pupils at Firth Primary, Stromness Academy, Dounby Primary and ‘Hope Primary after receiving confirmation from the Health Protection Agency (HPA) that areas of the four schools have radon levels above the recommended “action level”.

An immediate programme of remedial work was to be put in place at the affected schools.