Soil Gases

Definition

Soil gases are gases that enter a building from the surrounding ground, such as radon, volatile organics, and pesticides.

Purpose

The purpose of understanding and managing soil gases is to protect building occupants from potential health hazards by preventing the infiltration of harmful gases.

Examples of Use

• Radon mitigation systems are installed in homes to reduce the infiltration of radon gas from the soil.
• Industrial buildings use soil gas barriers to prevent the entry of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the workspace.
• Agricultural buildings monitor and control soil gases to ensure a safe environment for workers and livestock.

Related Terms

• Radon: A naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into buildings from the soil, posing health risks.
• VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds): Organic chemicals that can evaporate into the air and cause health issues.
• Soil Vapor Barrier: A material used to block soil gases from entering a building.

Notes

Testing and mitigation of soil gases are essential for maintaining indoor air quality and protecting the health of building occupants, especially in areas known for high levels of radon or VOCs.