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Published on: May 2, 2018
Indoor Radon Exposure in Italian Schools
Antonio Azara1, Marco Dettori2, Paolo Castiglia3
1Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Via P. Manzella, 07100 Sassari, Italy. azara@uniss.it.
Background:
The aim of the study was to assess radon concentration in schoolrooms in a city located in the midwest of Italy.
Methods:
A two-phase environmental study was carried out in 19 school buildings of 16 primary, secondary, and tertiary schools.
Results:
Median (interquartile range-IQR) indoor radon concentration in schoolrooms was 91.6 (45.0-140.3) Bq/m³. The highest (median 952.8 Bq/m³) radon concentration was found in one (3.6%) classroom, located in a building of a primary school whose median concentration was 185 Bq/m³. Radon concentration was significantly correlated with the number of students and teachers, foundation wall construction material, and with the absence of underground floors. A geopedological survey was performed close to the building with highest radon level, showing the presence of granite and tonalithic granodiorite in the soil.
Conclusions:
Radon levels should be routinely assessed where individuals live or work. Schools are susceptible targets, because of childhood stay and the long daily stay of occupants. Low-cost interventions, such as implementation of natural air ventilation and school maintenance, can reduce radon levels, limiting individual exposure.
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