Indoor radon survey in Shiraz-Iran using developed passive measurement method
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K. Hadad , M.R. Hakimdavoud , M. Hashemi-Tilehnoee |
, mehdi.hashemi.t@gmail.com |
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Abstract: (12328 Views) |
Background: While in the open air the amount of
radon gas is very small and does not pose a health
risk, in confined spaces, radon can accumulate to
relatively high levels and become a health hazard.
Exposure to high levels of radon has been associated
with an increased risk of lung cancer, depending on
the time length of exposure. Radon level in dwelling
of Shiraz with 1,200,000 populations has been
sampled and analyzed in this study. Our study could
be considered the largest radon study in Iran both
time and area wise. Materials and Methods: In this
study, radon (222Rn) concentration in residential
dwellings in Shiraz-Iran was sampled and measured
during two consecutive six month periods in 2009-
2010. We used Solid State Nuclear Track Detectors
(SSNTD), CR-39 polycarbonate films. The survey
parameters of radon concentrations were floor types,
construction materials and dwelling’s age. Results:
Annual average indoor radon concentration for the
survey period was 94±52 Bq/m3. The calculated
mean annual effective doses in basements and
different floors were less than the lowest limit
recommended action level of 3 mSv by ICRP.
Conclusion: High radon concentrations are measured
in basements and old dwellings however, due to
rapidly changing housing structures and ventilation
practices with no intervention, lower levels of radon
concentration has been expected in Shiraz. Iran. J.
Radiat. Res., 2011 9(3): 175-182
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Keywords: Indoor radon, CR-39, effective dose, electrochemical etching, radon atlas |
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Full-Text [PDF 518 kb]
(3203 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Original Research |
Subject:
Radiation Biology
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