More than 9,100 council-owned homes in Leeds are being tested for a radioactive gas after a risk of excessive Radon was identified.
A council meeting heard there was a risk between 1% and 5% of excessive radon potential in the homes.
The colourless, odourless gas occurs is formed by radioactive decay in rocks and soils.
According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) the radon level in the air outside is low, but it can be higher inside buildings. Exposure to high levels has been linked to increased risk of lung cancer.
A Leeds City Council spokesperson reportedly said the council was testing as a ‘precautionary measure’ alongside the UKHSA and added that there was ‘no suggestion’ that residents or properties were at risk.
Leeds City Council said it was carrying out the checks for radon in council-owned homes in the Morley, Middleton and Rothwell areas.
The issue was brought to the council’s environment and housing scrutiny committee last week by Middleton councillor Wayne Dixon, who said he wanted ‘reassurance’ that people were safe.
