Seasonal variation of radon concentration in drinking water and assessment of whole-body dose to the public along coastal parts of Kerala, India

Abstract

Context: Some of the coastal parts of Kerala are well-reported high background radiation area. Hence, the radiological protection of the population in this region has of great concern. Aims: In view of this, a study has been undertaken to understand the distribution of radon (222Rn) concentration in drinking water collected from the region. The seasonal variation of radon concentration in drinking water also forms part of the study. Assessment of whole-body dose and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) to the public were also done. Subjects and Methods: Emanometry method is followed for the quantification of dissolved radon concentration in water collected from various open wells. Results: Average value of ELCR at different locations is ranged from 0.009 × 10−3 to 0.123 × 10−3. Conclusion: The average value of effective dose was below the recommended limit of 0.1 mSv/y suggested by the WHO and the EU council. The present study indicates that water from the region can be safely consumed from the radiological protection point of view. All the results are presented and discussed in detail in the manuscript.

Keywords

• Drinking water
• excess lifetime cancer risk
• emanometry
• radon
• seasonal variation