Assessment of Radon Concentrations and Annual Effective Dose in Potable Water of Al-Khidhir District, Southern Iraq: A Radiological Risk Evaluation

Abstract

This study examines the levels of radon gas (²²²Rn) and the associated annual effective dose (AED) in potable water supplies utilized for domestic purposes in the Al-Khidhir District, Al-Muthanna Governorate, southern Iraq. In the study area, which included both the eastern and western regions of Al-Khidhir City, 230 water samples were gathered from 23 residential areas. A calibrated RAD7 radon in air detector from the Durridge Company in USA was used to take the measurements. Water aeration and humidity control were done according to standard protocols. The average radon concentration in the water samples was 10.30 Bq/L, with a range of 0.29 to 33.01 Bq/L. the average annual effective doses from inaling radon were 0.0074 mSv/y, with a range of 0.000328 t0 0.07587 mSv/y. According to the European Union (0.1 mSv/y) and the World Health Organization (100 Bq/L), all recorded values were significantly below the uppermost permitted limits. The local geology, soil texture, building age, and water distribution network integrity all contributed to the variations in radon levels in various locations. Long-term use of radon-contaminated water at homes, may raise the risk of radiation exposure even though the levels detected were low. This study provides vital baseline information for environmental radiation monitoring and public health protection in southern Iraq. Download Full Text