BS EN ISO 11665-11:2019 - Measurement of Radioactivity in the Environment

Standard Number: BS EN ISO 11665-11:2019

Pages: 34

Released: November 12, 2019

ISBN: 978 0 539 06909 9

Status: Standard

Overview

The BS EN ISO 11665-11:2019 is a comprehensive standard that provides a detailed methodology for the measurement of radioactivity in the environment, specifically focusing on radon-222 in the air. This standard is essential for professionals and organizations involved in environmental monitoring, health and safety, and radiation protection. It outlines the test method for soil gas with sampling at depth, ensuring accurate and reliable data collection.

Why is Radon-222 Measurement Important?

Radon-222 is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can pose significant health risks if present in high concentrations. It is a decay product of uranium and can accumulate in buildings, particularly in confined areas such as basements and ground floors. Prolonged exposure to high levels of radon-222 is known to increase the risk of lung cancer. Therefore, accurate measurement and monitoring of radon-222 levels in the environment are crucial for public health and safety.

Key Features of the Standard

• Comprehensive Methodology: The standard provides a detailed procedure for sampling soil gas at depth, ensuring that the data collected is both accurate and reliable.
• Internationally Recognized: As part of the ISO standards, it is recognized and utilized globally, making it a trusted resource for professionals in the field.
• Focus on Safety: By providing guidelines for measuring radon-222, the standard helps organizations implement effective safety measures to protect public health.
• Detailed Documentation: With 34 pages of in-depth information, the standard covers all necessary aspects of the measurement process, from preparation to data analysis.

Applications

This standard is applicable in various fields, including:

• Environmental Monitoring: Used by environmental agencies and organizations to monitor and assess radon levels in different environments.
• Construction and Building Safety: Essential for construction companies and building inspectors to ensure that new and existing structures are safe from radon accumulation.
• Health and Safety Regulations: Utilized by health and safety officers to develop and enforce regulations regarding radon exposure in workplaces and public spaces.

Benefits of Using BS EN ISO 11665-11:2019

Adopting this standard offers numerous benefits, including:

• Enhanced Accuracy: The standardized method ensures consistent and precise measurement of radon-222 levels.
• Global Compliance: Aligns with international standards, facilitating compliance with global regulations and best practices.
• Risk Mitigation: Helps identify and mitigate potential health risks associated with radon exposure, protecting both individuals and communities.
• Professional Credibility: Utilizing a recognized standard enhances the credibility and reliability of the data collected by professionals and organizations.

Conclusion

The BS EN ISO 11665-11:2019 standard is an invaluable resource for anyone involved in the measurement and monitoring of radon-222 in the environment. Its comprehensive guidelines and internationally recognized methodology make it an essential tool for ensuring public health and safety. By adhering to this standard, professionals can confidently assess radon levels and implement effective measures to protect against the potential risks associated with this radioactive gas.

BS EN ISO 11665-11:2019

This standard BS EN ISO 11665-11:2019 Measurement of radioactivity in the environment. Air: radon-222 is classified in these ICS categories:

• 17.240 Radiation measurements
• 13.040.01 Air quality in general

This part of ISO 11665 describes radon-222 test methods for soil gas using passive and active in-situ sampling at depth comprised between surface and 2 m.

This part of ISO 11665 gives general requirements for the sampling techniques, either passive or active and grab or continuous, for in-situ radon-222 activity concentrations measurement in soil gas.

The radon-222 activity concentration in the soil can be measured by spot or continuous measurement methods (see ISO 11665-1). In case of spot measurement methods (ISO 11665-6), the soil gas sampling is active only. On the other hand, the continuous methods (ISO 11665-5) are typically associated with passive soil gas sampling.

The measurement methods are applicable to all types of soil and are determined according to the end use of the measurement results (phenomenological observation, definition or verification of mitigation techniques, etc.) taking into account the expected level of the radon-222 activity concentration.

These measurement methods are applicable to soil gas samples with radon activity concentrations greater than 100 Bq/m³.

NOTE This part of ISO 11665 is complementary with ISO 11665-7 for characterization of the radon soil potential.