Radon monitors now available to borrow from Mayo Library

MAYO Library has announced the launch of a new Radon Monitor Loan Scheme, enabling members of 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. The initiative was launched at Castlebar Library this week by Mayo County Council cathaoirleach Councillor Sean Carey.

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 just like a book, 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.

“We’re delighted to offer this important service to our community,” said county librarian Austin Vaughan. “In Mayo Library, we’re here to support people and the wider community in practical and meaningful ways.

“We already have home energy kits and reusable party sets available for lending, both of which are valuable environmental initiatives. Protecting people’s health by making the radon monitors available is an excellent and valuable addition.”

Added Joanne Grehan, director of services with responsibility for libraries: “Libraries are important community hubs, and their services have expanded far beyond the traditional.

“This is an important health initiative being provided by Mayo County Council through our library service locally, and we encourage people to avail of it. 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.

“It’s a simple step that can make a real difference to our citizens' health and wellbeing.”

Councillor Carey stated at the launch: “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. This includes literacy, learning, 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, added: “Radon is a serious health risk that causes about 350 cases of lung cancer every year. We are pleased to work with the libraries to make it easy for people to take that first step - borrow a monitor, use it at home for three weeks, and get an indication of radon levels in your home.

“It’s a small action that can help protect you and your family.”

Borrowing a monitor from Mayo libraries - in the same way as you borrow a book for three weeks - 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.

More information here on testing your home and reducing high levels to keep you and your family safe.