Westmeath Libraries launch radon monitor loan scheme to support public health

Westmeath Library service have announced the launch of a new Radon Monitor Loan Scheme, enabling the public to borrow digital radon monitors to check radon levels in their homes.

It is a Healthy Ireland at Your Library initiative, supported by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to raise awareness of radon and promote proactive health measures.

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can accumulate indoors. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in Ireland after smoking.

Through the scheme, library users can borrow a digital radon monitor, gaining a snapshot of radon levels in their homes.

While not a replacement for the recommended three-month test, the monitors offer a valuable first step in identifying potential radon issues.

The initiative has already seen success in Cork County, Wexford and Wicklow, and is now expanding to additional libraries and local authorities across the country.

The monitors can be borrowed from each library in the same way users would borrow books.

Amanda Branigan, chair of the National Healthy Ireland at Your Library Working Group and Louth county librarian, said: “This scheme shows how libraries can play a vital role in supporting national health initiatives at a local level. Libraries offer a broad-spectrum of services that support people in our communities, from literacy and learning, to health and wellbeing initiatives.

“Making radon monitors available to borrow is another way we’re helping people take informed steps to protect their health.”

Patrick Byrne, EPA director, said: “Radon is a serious health risk, and the EPA recommends that people test for radon in their homes. We are pleased to work with the libraries to make radon monitors freely available in communities across Ireland.

“This is an important opportunity to help people take a simple, practical first step to find out about radon levels in their homes and make informed choices to reduce the risk to their health.

Radon causes about 350 lung cancer cases in Ireland each year. Borrowing a monitor will give a good indication of radon levels in a home.

To get an accurate measurement of radon levels, a three-month test is required.

You can visit www.radon.ie to get further information on testing your home and reducing high levels to keep you and your family safe.