Radon activity concentration in a public utility facility in Bolesławów (SW Poland) in an area with a medium radon potential

Abstract

According to the hypothesis of radiation hormesis, in appropriate doses, radon may have a positive effect on the human body, but it’s too high concentration becomes harmful. According to the applicable provisions of law, some employers are obliged to measure the concentration of radon activity in the air. The article presents the results of long-term measurements (with CR-39 detectors) and the results of short-term measurements made by the author (using the AlphaGuard device) in a public utility facility - a kindergarten in Bolesławów. It is located in an area with moderate radon potential. The article presents the results for two rooms. In one of them, construction works took place before the measurements, during which the floor was protected with a foil, on which a screed was made. In the second, this procedure is only planned. Based on the results, it was found that the floor insulation can reduce the concentration of radon activity in indoor air even three times. Short-term measurements also showed a significant influence of air exchange on the concentration of radon activity. Thanks to airing the room, the concentration of radon activity can be reduced two or even three times.