Abstract
Background: In this work a radon mapping method implemented in Piedmont, an Italian Region in the Northern part of the country, is presented and discussed.
 Methods: The method is based on a “mixed approach”, combining together an experimental approach, based on a large set of experimental radon measurements performed with nuclear track detectors, and an empirical model, based on the geo-lithological characteristics of soils and rocks. This approach was named as “radio-geo-lithological” because the identification of geo-lithological units was defined considering not only the usual geological classification of the territory but also the radioactivity content of the most widespread rocks and soils of Piedmont.
 Results and Conclusion: This method allowed to classification of all municipalities of Piedmont (1181), thus permitting the identification of the Radon Priority Areas, a provision required by the new Italian law (Legislative Decree 101/2020), implementing the European Basic Safety Standards (Euratom Directive 59/2013).
Highlights
In spite of the well-known radon spatial and temporal variability, radon mapping is still a very useful tool for the implementation of effective and efficient radon action plans
The Directive 59/2013 Euratom [1] mentions explicitly radon mapping as a technical instrument for the definition of the radon priority areas (RPAs), the former radon prone areas, defined as the areas of a given territory (State or Region) where the probability of occurrence of high indoor radon concentrations is significantly greater than other parts of the country
The first indoor radon campaign in Piedmont (NorthWest Italy) dates back to the nineties of the previous century (1990–1991): it was a regional survey involving about 450 dwellings and started as part of the Italian National Radon Survey (1989–1994) [2–6]
Summary
In spite of the well-known radon spatial and temporal variability, radon mapping is still a very useful tool for the implementation of effective and efficient radon action plans. A radon map cannot be used to predict the radon level in a single dwelling, it can be, very useful, in particular, for the prioritization of the measures to be adopted in certain areas, in order to reduce the population exposure This fact was clearly recognized in recent laws and regulations. Methods: The method is based on a “mixed approach”, combining together an experimental approach, based on a large set of experimental radon measurements performed with nuclear track detectors, and an empirical model, based on the geo-lithological characteristics of soils and rocks This approach was named as “radio-geo-lithological” because the identification of geo-lithological units was defined considering the usual geological classification of the territory and the radioactivity content of the most widespread rocks and soils of Piedmont.
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