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Radon in Finnish underground mines 2011-2019
Katja Kojo1, Jussi-Pekka Laine1, Tuukka Turtiainen1
1Environmental Radiation Surveillance, Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority, Helsinki, Finland.
Summary
Radon levels in Finnish underground mines remain low, with average concentrations between 90-1100 Bq m-3 from 2011-2019. Higher levels are now only seen in non-operational mines, indicating effective exposure control.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Occupational Health
- Radiological Protection
Background:
- Radon monitoring in Finnish underground mines began in 1972.
- Regular radon inspections by authorities have been conducted since 1992.
- This study presents a follow-up survey of air radon concentrations in these mines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess current radon concentrations in Finnish underground mines.
- To evaluate trends in occupational radon exposure.
- To compare Finnish mine radon levels with international studies.
Main Methods:
- Air grab samples collected during regular inspections.
- Laboratory analysis of collected radon samples.
- Analysis of data from 2011 to 2019.
Main Results:
- Average radon concentrations (2011-2019) ranged from 90 to 1100 Bq m-3.
- Overall occupational radon exposure has remained low since the 1990s.
- Elevated radon levels were primarily observed in mines where active operations ceased.
Conclusions:
- Occupational radon exposure in Finnish underground mines is generally low.
- Radon concentrations are comparable to those in mines internationally.
- The authority is exploring personal radon detectors to improve future exposure assessments.
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