WP5

Objectives

The main goal of the WP 5 is to improve and optimise radiation protection of workers, the general public and the environment against the harmful effects of ionising radiation caused by presence of natural radionuclides in natural and work environment utilizing innovative mitigation techniques and systems. To achieve the goal, objectives are defined as:

• Improvement of radon mitigation systems efficiency and sustainability by:

• Taking advantages from the increased knowledge on radon sources and radon entry pathways and overall efficiency of radon control systems with respect to existing environmental conditions corresponding to public exposure in dwellings and occupational exposure in specific workplaces involving NORM industries
• Modification and optimization of the performance of existing ventilation systems, application of radon- resistant construction techniques and materials and the utilization of continuous radon monitors for control of active operation elements of preventive measures and corrective actions.
• Gathering and analysis of information on lessons learned and experience gained in mitigation of radon in buildings, workplaces and NORM industry facilities in EU MS in order to improve regulation tools and procedures leading to reduction of occupational and public exposures to ionizing radiation.

• Development of NORM residues/waste final treatment strategies based on preventive actions and mitigation methods with respect to existing circumstances corresponding to specific NORM involving industries, technological processes, legacy sites and environmental conditions. Evaluation of remediation options using radioecological models from the legal perspective and general radiation protection principles (justification, optimization, and dose limitation) based on industry specific BATs (Best Available technologies) and/or LCA (Life Cycle Assessment).
• The methods used in WP5 include: in-situ measurement campaigns in dwellings, workplaces, NORM involving industries facilities and legacy sites; field radiation surveys and environmental monitoring and sampling; laboratory measurement and analysis; proficiency testing programs in radon/ thoron calibration facilities; in-situ comparisons measurement; radioecological modelling and utilization of case studies in specific NORM affected sites constantly exploited as well as legacy ones; radon resistant construction techniques and materials testing; data processing and analysis software tools; information and data collection methods (questionnaires).