The study of radon levels and absorbed dose in the staff and visitors of Alisadr Cave

Abstract

CR-39 passive integrating Solid State Nuclear Track etch Detectors (SSNTDs) were used to measure atmospheric radon concentrations in the Alisadr show cave in Hamedan province, Iran. This was done in order to assess the risk from natural environmental radiation to tourists and cave guides. The study was carried out in 12 locations in the winter and spring periods. The mean radon concentration during the winter period was 1504.6 Bq m -3 and the highest value was 2280.4 Bq m -3 during spring. The average absorbed dose for visitors and guides was estimated as 0.02 mSv per visit, and 4.32 mSv per season, respectively. The annual average absorbed dose is rather more significant for staff, being in the order of 16.50 mSv.

A reconnaissance study of radon concentrations in Hamadan city, Iran

“…2 -small area highlighted by contours) are known to contain caves to the north, some of these have been shown to contain high radon levels. Jabarivasal and Gillmore (2008), highlighted a maximum concentrated of 4317 Bq/m 3 with cave guides receiving an estimated yearly dose of around 16.5 mSv in the Alisadr caves. This is significant because Oligo-Miocene limestone partly underlies the permeable alluvial fan sands and gravels that underlay the city.…”