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Radioactivity in Spanish spas
J Soto1, P L Fernández, L S Quindós
1Department of Medical Physics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain.
The Science of the Total Environment
|January 27, 1995
Summary
Spanish spas show high radioactivity, particularly radon, with inadequate safety measures. This study highlights the need for radiation protection in therapeutic environments to safeguard patients and staff.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Radiological Health
- Hydrogeology
Background:
- Spain possesses numerous spas, yet data on their radioactivity is scarce.
- Radioactivity, particularly radon and radium, is a key factor in spa water properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess radioactivity levels in Spanish spas, focusing on radon and radium in water and radon in indoor air.
- To investigate the specific case of spas in Cantabria, Spain, and their associated radioactivity.
- To evaluate the need for radiation protection measures in these therapeutic settings.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of radon and radium concentrations in spa water samples.
- Measurement of radon concentration in the indoor air of spa facilities.
- Sampling across a wide range of Spanish spas, with a focus on the Cantabria region.
Main Results:
- One Cantabrian spa exhibited exceptionally high radon levels: 824 Bq/l in water and over 5000 Bq/m3 in indoor air.
- A significant number of surveyed spas present moderately high radon levels in their waters.
- Many spas utilize these radioactive waters for medical treatments without implementing radiation protection for individuals present.
Conclusions:
- A considerable proportion of Spanish spas contain elevated radon levels in their waters.
- The widespread use of these radioactive waters for therapeutic purposes lacks essential radiation safety protocols.
- Urgent implementation of radiation protection measures is necessary in Spanish spas to mitigate health risks for patients and staff.