Mapping radon-prone areas using γ-radiation dose rate and geological information

J Radiol Prot. 2013 Sep;33(3):605-20. doi: 10.1088/0952-4746/33/3/605. Epub 2013 Jun 27.

Abstract

Identifying radon-prone areas is key to policies on the control of this environmental carcinogen. In the current paper, we present the methodology followed to delineate radon-prone areas in Spain. It combines information from indoor radon measurements with γ-radiation and geological maps. The advantage of the proposed approach is that it lessens the requirement for a high density of measurements by making use of commonly available information. It can be applied for an initial definition of radon-prone areas in countries committed to introducing a national radon policy or to improving existing radon maps in low population regions.

MeSH terms

  • Air Pollutants, Radioactive / analysis*
  • Air Pollution, Indoor / prevention & control
  • Data Collection
  • Gamma Rays
  • Geographic Mapping
  • Geology / methods
  • Humans
  • Linear Models
  • Radiation Monitoring / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Radiation Monitoring / methods*
  • Radon / adverse effects
  • Radon / analysis*
  • Spain

Substances

  • Air Pollutants, Radioactive
  • Radon