A new law that prevents the distribution of building materials causing sick building syndrome (SBS) will be enacted. Regulations restricting the use of radon, which causes lung cancer, will also be strengthened. (Image : Kobizmedia / Korea Bizwire)
SEJONG, Dec.16 (Korea Bizwire) – A new law that prevents the distribution of building materials causing sick building syndrome (SBS) will be enacted. Regulations restricting the use of radon, which causes lung cancer, will also be strengthened.
The Ministry of Environment announced that the revised bill on ‘Management of Indoor Air of Multi-purpose Facilities’ passed in the National Assembly. The law was announced on December 15, and will enter effect in December 2016.
According to the revised bill, manufacturers and importers of building materials must be evaluated to see if they meet the standards before they will be permitted to provide materials to construction companies building subway stations, medical facilities or theaters.
Prior to the new developments, materials that exceeded the standard pollution levels had their use restricted by the Ministry of Environment. However, materials that exceeded the standards were sometimes used before the regulations were put into place.
In the meantime, laws have also been strengthened for the management of radon, which is designated as a first class carcinogen by the WHO and is known to cause lung cancer.
In the past, authorities stopped at setting and managing regulations on the quality of air indoors, only advising facilities to meet the criteria. However, in the future, they will strictly investigate and manage radon concentration. Also, a ‘radon map’ will be made. The governor of high density areas will make and activate a ‘radon management plan’.
By M.H.Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
