Radiation (x-ray, gamma, beta)

Radiation in the Home – A Homeowner’s Guide to Understanding Everyday Exposure

What is Radiation?

Radiation is a form of energy that travels through space in waves or particles. Some types are harmless (like the heat from the sun), but others can damage living tissue when exposure is too high. The types of radiation that most homeowners hear about are:

X-rays – high-energy radiation often used in medical imaging.
Gamma rays – the most powerful form of radiation, often associated with radioactive materials.
Beta particles – smaller, lower-energy particles released from certain radioactive sources.

Radiation sounds frightening, but the truth is: small amounts of it are all around us every day. The concern is when exposure builds up or comes from hidden sources inside your home.

Where Does Radiation Come From in the Home?

Radiation in homes can come from both natural and man-made sources. Common examples include:

Radon gas: the leading source of household radiation exposure, produced naturally from the ground.
Building materials: some stone, brick, or concrete can contain small amounts of naturally occurring radioactive materials.
Medical sources: X-rays and certain treatments can result in trace amounts of radiation being released into the home environment.
Consumer products: older smoke detectors, luminous watch dials, antique ceramics or glassware, and some older televisions.
Water supply: in some areas, groundwater can contain naturally occurring radioactive elements.

Most of these sources give off very low levels of radiation, but in combination, or when concentrated in certain areas, they may pose health risks.

Why is Radiation Dangerous?

Radiation is dangerous because it can damage the body’s cells and DNA.

Short-term high exposure: can cause nausea, burns, and radiation sickness (though this is extremely rare in a home environment).
Long-term low exposure: increases the risk of cancer, especially leukemia and thyroid cancers.

The risks depend on the type of radiation, how much you’re exposed to, and how long the exposure lasts. Children and pregnant women are generally more sensitive to radiation.

Why Should Homeowners Care About Radiation?

Radiation exposure in the home usually isn’t from dramatic accidents — it’s from everyday, hidden sources.

Radon gas alone is responsible for thousands of lung cancer cases each year.
Old building materials, antiques, or outdated appliances can sometimes emit low levels of radiation without homeowners realizing it.
Because radiation can’t be seen, smelled, or felt, most people don’t know how much they’re being exposed to.

Even if risks are relatively small, many families want peace of mind knowing their home is safe from unnecessary radiation exposure.

What if Radiation is Found in My Home?

If radiation sources are discovered, steps can be taken to reduce exposure and make your home healthier:

Radon mitigation systems can lower the biggest source of household radiation.
Safe removal or storage of older consumer products (such as antique items containing radioactive material).
Sealing or replacing building materials that contain higher-than-normal radiation levels.
Water treatment systems that remove radioactive particles from drinking water.

Tips for Reducing Radiation Risk

Test for radon gas — it’s the leading cause of radiation exposure indoors.
Avoid storing or using antique items known to contain radioactive material (such as old uranium glass or luminous dials).
Keep your home well-ventilated to reduce gas buildup from soil.
Be mindful of frequent X-ray imaging; while medical scans are important, avoid unnecessary exposure by following your doctor’s recommendations.
If you live in an area with high natural background radiation, consider periodic testing for air, water, and building material safety.

The Bottom Line

Radiation is a natural part of our environment, but certain types and levels can put your health at risk.

Most homes have low levels of background radiation that aren’t harmful.
Some homes may have higher risks due to radon gas, old building materials, or outdated consumer products.
Reducing exposure is possible: through radon mitigation, smart product choices, and awareness of hidden sources.

A Home Health Inspection that checks for radiation risks — including radon, building materials, and environmental factors — can help you understand your home’s exposure and take steps to protect your family.