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Occupational and environmental radiation exposures from small-scale tin ore processing: A case study from Bangka
Yo Ishigaki1, Takashi Moritake2, Harrizki Arie Pradana3
1Research Center for Realizing Sustainable Societies, University of Electro-Communications, Tokyo, Japan.
Small-scale tin ore processing in Indonesia poses significant radiation exposure risks. Both workers and nearby residents face elevated doses from Technologically Enhanced Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (TENORM), necessitating improved safety measures.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Radiological Protection
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Technologically Enhanced Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (TENORM) are present in tin ore processing.
- Small-scale mining operations may lack adequate radiation safety protocols.
- Bangka Island, Indonesia, has a history of tin mining activities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess radiation exposure risks for individuals involved in or living near small-scale tin ore processing.
- To quantify occupational and environmental radiation doses.
- To evaluate the correlation between proximity to workshops and exposure levels.
Main Methods:
- Dose assessment for 20 individuals (workers and residents) using dosimeters and air kerma measurements.
- Approximation of effective dose from air kerma using International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) conversion coefficients.
- Measurement of urinary uranium levels in ore workers and controls.
- Statistical analysis of exposure differences and correlation with distance from workshops.
Main Results:
- Workers received significant occupational doses (mean 6.87 mGy/y, some >26.49 mGy/y).
- 71% of residents exceeded the ICRP public dose limit (1 mSv/y) at desk locations.
- Exposure levels significantly correlated with distance from workshops (R²=0.6612).
- Ore workers showed higher exposure than non-ore workers and elevated urinary uranium levels.
Conclusions:
- Small-scale tin ore processing presents substantial occupational and environmental radiation risks.
- Elevated TENORM exposure affects both direct workers and nearby communities.
- There is an urgent need for enhanced radiation protection and contamination control measures in these areas.
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