Radiational impact of mining on the population at large.

Autor: Titov, V., Venkov, V., Chernik, D.
Zdroj: Atomic Energy; Apr1998, Vol. 84 Issue 4, p237-240, 4p
Abstrakt: The exploitation of mineral deposits containing natural radionuclides (even in concentrations too small for industrial use) may pose radiation hazards for the nearby population on account of radioactive discharge into the water and the atmosphere and the seeping of radon into living quarters. This risk is especially great if the protective belt around the mine is established incorrectly, settlements are laid out without paying attention to the radioecological conditions, or mine wastes are used without supervision in building houses. The technology and equipment here described permits investigation of the distribution of radioactive discharges at mineral deposits. Experience in monitoring the radiation hazards in the region of the Kovdorsk mining and enrichment combine, the Belaya Zima prospecting region, and elsewhere may be used wherever natural radionuclides are present as primary of secondary components. However, it is necessary to employ high-accuracy methods and equipment permitting the use of milligram samples; in particular, laser-luminescent analysis of uranium in the samples is recommended. It is important to develop and publish standard documents on estimating the radiation hazards of mineral deposits, both for the protection of the population and as a means of preventing irrational fear of radiation, which is often a greater threat to the public health than are natural radionuclides themselves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Databáze: Complementary Index