Reduction in 222radon concentration due to water treatment processes

In 40 samples of drinkable water taken from public fountains in the Province of Genoa determinations of 222Rn concentration were performed. The results were related to data obtained in a previous study on 222Rn concentration in spring water in the same areas, in order to assess a possible variation due to water treatment and to the aqueduct piping length. Radon concentration was also related to the main geographical areas in the Province and to the different geological formations. The average concentration was 0.92 +/- 0.86 Bq/l, and it can be related to equivalent dose to the population of 0.16 mSv/year. Our data show that water treatment processes cause a reduction in Radon concentration ranging between 58% and 93%, from picking up to utilization.