Assessment of Radon Gas in Some Selected Areas in Makurdi Metropolis
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Abstract
Radon gas levels were evaluated to determine the exposure rate in Makurdi and surrounding areas due to the lack of available data on radon levels. The study utilized a digital radon detector to measure indoor radon concentrations in selected areas of Makurdi Metropolis. Forty-one (41) offices/houses were chosen for indoor radon measurements using the digital radon detector (model QRI: dimensions 120 mm x 69 mm x 25.5 mm), known for its portability and ability to provide precise readings within 24 hours. Measurements were conducted during the dry season, showing average indoor and outdoor radon gas concentrations at Benue State University of 18.50 ± 3.70 Bq/m3 and 14.43 ± 0.37 Bq/m3, respectively. The overall indoor radon concentration in Makurdi was found to be 12.23 ± 1.68 Bq/m3, all below the recommended limits by ICRP for residential buildings (200 Bq/m3 and 600 Bq/m3). The annual absorbed dose rate ranged from 0.29 to 0.46 mSv/yr within the school environment and 0.22 to 0.36 mSv/yr outside the school, with an overall mean of 0.31 ± 0.01 mSv/yr. These values are below the ICRP intervention limit (3-10 mSv/yr) and within the acceptable value of 2.4 mSv/yr. However, poorly ventilated offices may pose potential health risks due to radon gas effects.
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