Radon Hazards

Radon is a radioactive element naturally found in the form of gas. The radon is abundant with some soil layers and may accumulate on the lower floors of buildings, and even migrate to the upper floors through pipeline of infrastructure (such as a telephone). Inhaled, radon can cause the initiation (cancer) of the lung cells. The Knesset (14th), as well as the Knesset that preceded it, submitted a private bill for the removal of radon gas hazards, which was intended to require the conduct of radon gas detection tests in public buildings and to take measures to prevent the hazard. The bill has not been promulgated into law, so it is no longer before the legislature. There is a general legislation dealing with radioactive materials, the Pharmacists Regulations (Radioactive Elements and Their Products), 1980.

These regulations do not set radon standards, though they do mention it. The Public Health Regulations (the sanitary quality of drinking water and drinking water facilities), 2013 also do not limit radon (radon found in water may evaporate when used and some states specifically restrict its concentration in water), but there are restrictions on radioactive radiation Alpha and Beta type of radiation (non-gamma) as well as Radium 226 which is the source of radon.

There are areas in Israel where there are high concentrations of radon, with the main risks of long-term exposure to radon being to tenants in residences.

Our attorneys will be able to advise you regarding real estate contracts, help in the preparation of expert opinions that can be used as evidence in a legal process, tort claims for radon damage and impairment of assets due to radon exposure .