QUANTITATIVE ASSESSMENT OF RADIATION EXPOSURE ACROSS DIVERSE SETTINGS: IMPLICATIONS FOR NUCLEAR SAFETY AND PUBLIC HEALTH

• Main Author: Lovanantenaina O, RAKOTOVAO
• Format: Dissertations
• Language: Indonesia
• Online Access: https://digilib.itb.ac.id/gdl/view/84140
• Institution: Institut Teknologi Bandung

The presence of radiation, which can occur naturally or be caused by human activities, is widespread in our surroundings. Therefore, it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of radiation and the ability to detect it accurately, to protect human health and maintain environmental integrity. This study examines three different settings using different approaches to evaluate and track radiation exposure. It provides a comparative analysis that identifies both shared patterns and distinct obstacles in different geographical situations. In Mamuju, Indonesia, the specific levels of external radiation exposure experienced by individuals was measured. The initial research, utilized a cross-sectional study approach with cluster sampling to quantify both external and internal radiation exposures. A supplementary study investigated the levels of radioactivity in sediments in the coastal areas of Mamuju. For the case of the present study, the focus is on the personal dose for the individual in each area of study in Mamuju. The measurement of external radiation exposure was carefully calculated over a period of 30 days using a portable personal dosimeter called SmartRad, manufactured by Enviro Korea Co., Ltd. This dosimeters with high sensitivity offer continuous, real-time data, allowing for spatial analysis using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The results demonstrate that the dose rate fluctuates between 0.152 and 4.200 ?Sv/h, and cumulatively spans from 0.1 to 8.4 ?Sv/day, with an average measurement length of 160 minutes. The mean radiation dose in regions containing mineral reserves is 11.02 mSv/y. Conversely, the typical amount of radiation exposure in regions lacking radioactive material resources is 2.6493 mSv annually. The annual average effective dose for public was recorded as 6.8347 mSv. The results suggest that the general public in Mamuju is exposed to radiation levels that beyond the recommended threshold set by the International Commission of Radiological Protection. In Fukushima prefecture, the study was examined the radiation dose data to monitor the yearly decrease in ambient radiation doses and evaluate the variables influencing variations in reconstructed areas, using an innovative mobile monitoring system on a community minibus. This system included a cost-effective sensor named Pocket Geiger, which was combined with a microcontroller and telecommunication system. These components allowed for data transfer, access, display, and accumulation. The study area encompassed the geographical region spanning from Okuma to Tomioka towns. The ambient dose rate measured along the minibus route was represented on a map, with the values averaged within a 1 × 1 km grid generated using the Quantum Geographic Information System. In order to guarantee precision, the shielding factor of the minivan material is calculated in order to modify the dose readings. A significant reduction (p < 0.001) in the radiation dose occurred between 2022 and 2023. The land use classification conducted by the Advanced Land Observation Satellite indicated that the ecological half-life varies between 2.41 years and 1 year, indicating a rapid decline in radiation across all types of land. This highlights the strong correlation between the reduction of radiation and other environmental parameters, as well as the actions taken for the decontamination in different types of land. In Bangka Island, Indonesia, researcher utilized Geiger Muller dosimeters and pocket PM2.5 sensors to assess the levels of ambient radiation doses and particulate matter (PM2.5) linked to tin production. This two-pronged approach offered a comprehension of the environmental health hazards linked to both radiation and air quality. Glass sensors were utilized to improve individual exposure monitoring, providing accurate and customized information on levels of radiation exposure. Differences in ambient dose rates were found in several places both inside and around a mineral processing factory. The locations with the greatest recorded levels of radiation were found in places such as slag storage, where the dose rates reached 7.6 µSv/h. On the other hand, the lowest levels of radiation were detected in office spaces, guest houses, parking lots, and public beach areas, with dose rates as low as 0.08 µSv/h. Certain regions linked to the processing and disposal of minerals, such as the storage areas for slag and samples of specific minerals (e.g., ilmenite, zircon, monazite), exhibited increased levels of radiation. Specific operational zones, such as slag sites, displayed meaningly elevated ambient dose rates, suggesting possible health hazards for workers and neighboring public. In contrast, residential and office locations exhibited relatively low ambient dose rates, indicating negligible radiation exposure issues in these settings. Prior research in Bangka has shown that certain mining and mineral processing sites have higher radiation levels due to the presence of naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) and Technological naturally occurring radioactive material (TENORM) . This study confirms prior research by identifying the same areas with higher radiation levels in mineral processing plants, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and safety precautions for radiation. Distinct concentrating on single sites or specific types of radiation exposure, this research takes a broader approach. These three locations demonstrate a wide range of scenarios found in areas with naturally high levels of background radiation. They provide valuable insights into the various ways in which radiation exposure occurs in different environments and from different sources. The study emphasizes the need for radiation monitoring that combines natural, man-made, and industrial sources to establish efficient safety protocols. The implication of focused interventions in post-disaster situations is highlighted by the swift reduction in radiation levels in Fukushima, which has been aided by alterations in land use and decontamination initiatives. The results from Bangka demonstrate the interconnected relationship between industrial activity and environmental well-being, underscoring the importance of monitoring two key parameters (radiation and PM2.5) in industrial areas. The concurrent evaluation of PM 2.5 and radiation levels emphasizesthe combined health hazards posed by these two types of pollutants. This study presents a model for monitoring ambient dose and protecting public health in High Natural Background Radiation (HNBR) areas situations. The approach includes site-specific monitoring, dynamic data gathering, thorough risk assessment, and adaptable solutions. These numerical results emphasize the necessity of enforcing strict protection measures and regulatory compliance in environments exposed to radiation. Furthermore, they provide valuable perspectives for protecting public health and managing the environment, with a focus on flexible approaches to reduce the dangers associated with radiation exposure.