Radon levels in nurseries and primary schools in Bragança District - Preliminary assessment

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2015

Authors

S. I. V. Sousa (Author) FEUP; P. T. B. S. Branco (Author) Other; R. A. O. Nunes (Author) Other; M. C. M. Alvim Ferraz (Author) Other; F. G. Martins (Author) FEUP

Journal

Title: Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health - Part A

Vol. 78 No. 13-14

Pages: 805-813

ISSN: 1528-7394

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 6 Citations

Scopus - 0 Citations

Associated Projects

LEPAE/CEFT - RL2 - (Bio) Chemical Engineering: Multi-Scale Approaches for Sustainable Environment and Health

INAIRCHILD - Poluição do Ar Interior em infantários e escolas primárias: Impacte na Asma Infantil

LEPABE - Laboratório de Engenharia de Processos, Ambiente, Biotecnologia e Energia

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00G-DX3

DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2015.1051171

Abstract (EN): Lung cancer has been associated with radon concentration even at low levels such as those found in dwellings. This study aimed to (i) determine radon diurnal variations in three nurseries and one primary school in the Braganca district (north of Portugal) and (ii) compare radon concentrations with legislated standards and assess the legislated procedures. Radon was measured in three nurseries and a primary school in a rural area with nongranite soil. Measurements were performed continuously to examine differences between occupation and nonoccupation periods. Indoor temperature and relative humidity were also measured continuously. A great variability was found in radon concentrations between the microenvironments examined. Radon concentrations surpassed by severalfold the recommended guidelines and thresholds, and excessive levels of health concern were sporadically found (361.5-753.5 Bq m(-3)). Thus, it is of importance to perform a national campaign on radon measurements and to reduce exposure.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 9