Radon Source Research Articles

Analysis of exposure to radon in Bulgarian rehabilitation hospitals.

Mineral springs are used in spa resorts throughout the world. Radon is a natural radioactive source, which can dissolve, accumulate, and be transported by water. This study investigates the radon concentration in air and water in 12 Bulgarian rehabilitation hospitals and presents the assessment of the exposure to radon in them. The measurements were performed at 401 premises within 21 buildings, using two types of passive detectors for a dry and wet environment that were exposed from February, 2019 to June, 2019. The radon concentration varied from 19 to 2550Bq/m3 with an arithmetic mean and a standard deviation of 102Bq/m3 and 191Bq/m3, respectively. The hypothesis that in hospitals the source of radon, besides soil under the buildings, is also the mineral water that is used for treatment was tested. Thermal water samples were procured sequentially from a spring and baths to analyse the reduction of radon concentration in them till reaching the premises. The results show that the concentration of radon decreased by approximately 50%. Further, the correlation analysis applied to the data proved the relation of the levels of indoor radon in the treatment rooms with those in the water. Mineral water used in rehabilitation hospitals have radon transfer coefficients ranging from 4.5·10-4 to 8.4·10-3. In addition, an analysis of the exposure of patients and workers to radon in rehabilitation hospitals based on the indoor radon levels and period of exposure was performed. The doses of workers do not exceed the limit of the annual effective dose for the population from all sources (1mSv/year).

Identification of sources with abnormal radon exhalation rates based on radon concentrations in underground environments

When there is poor ventilation or an irregular radon exhalation rate in an underground environment, it is necessary to judge whether the radon concentration is abnormal. To protect personal safety and health from radon gas, it is necessary to track the location of an abnormal radon source and measure its release rate to formulate emergency control and eradication measures. However, in an underground environment, it is impossible to fully monitor the radon concentration at every location, and as a result, blind spots are present, making it difficult to obtain timely early warnings in the event of an abnormal radon exhalation rate. Based on the distribution of radon concentration in an underground environment, this research establishes a theoretical mathematical model of an underground ventilation network containing radon. We combined particle swarm optimization with the long short-term memory (PSO-LSTM) method, which uses part of a time series signal of monitored radon concentrations to track the location of an abnormal radon source and determine an abnormal radon exhalation rate. Performing experiments of theoretical examples and actual underground ventilation environment examples, we prove the necessity of optimizing the monitoring position of the angle-connected ventilation network. The results show that the PSO-LSTM model based on radon concentration monitoring can process time series signals. Its accuracy and decision coefficient greater that is than 0.9 indicate the reliability of the model and method.

Contribution of soil in the annual effective dose due to radon in the air of some dwellings in the city of Karbala, Iraq

Abstract Introduction: The radon isotopes are not as significant as (222Rn) due to the decay of the natural radionuclides (235U), (232Th) and (238U) due to their short half-life, at most. (222Rn) can be classified as among the most harmful radioactive elements in the world. Material and method: In this analysis, the closed-can technique was used with solid-state nuclear track detectors (CR-39). After forty days of closed dosimeter buried in the soil of the garden, and ninety days from the closed position in the air of some dwellings were collected dosimeter and stripped of nuclear detectors impact of closed groups. For 8 hours, CR-39 detectors were chemically etched by (6.25 N) NaOH solution at 70°C and then registered within an optical microscope. Result: The levels of soil radon concentrations ranged from 28.44±0.58 to 479.76±2.43 Bq/m3 with a mean value of 220.33±1.64 Bq/m3, while the concentration of radon in the air of certain dwellings varied from (1.95±0.27 to 46.82±0.75) Bq/m3 with an average value of 21.51±0.54 Bq/m3. In comparison, the annual effective dose attributed to radon in soil ranged from 0.71±0.09 mSv/y to 12.10±0.38 mSv/y with an average value of 5.55±0.261 mSv/y, while the annual effective dose in air differed from (0.04±0.02 mSv/y) to (1.18±0.12 mSv/y) with an average value of (0.60±0.09 mSv/y). Conclusion: Neglecting the effects of other radon sources, the percentage share of the annual effective dose due to radon in soil measured in the air home, ranged from 0.005±0.001 to 0.453±0.074 with an average value of 0.130±0.040. Weak correlation between concentrations of radon in households and soil air. But roughly speaking, one can say that in soil air every 1000 Bq/m3 and 1000 mSv/y contributes around 130 Bq/m3 and 130 mSv/y in indoor air.

Soil gas radon and soil permeability assessment: Mapping radon risk areas in Perak State, Malaysia.

In this study geogenic radon potential (GRP) mapping was carried out on the bases of field radon in soil gas concentration and soil gas permeability measurements by considering the corresponding geological formations. The spatial pattern of soil gas radon concentration, soil permeability, and GRP and the relationship between geological formations and these parameters was studied by performing detailed spatial analysis. The radon activity concentration in soil gas ranged from 0.11 to 434.5 kBq m-3 with a mean of 18.96 kBq m-3, and a standard deviation was 55.38 kBq m-3. The soil gas permeability ranged from 5.2×10-14 to 5.2×10-12 m2, with a mean of 5.65×10-13 m2. The GRP values were computed from the 222Rn activity concentration and soil gas permeability data. The range of GRP values was from 0.04 to 154.08. Locations on igneous granite rock geology were characterized by higher soil radon gas activity and higher GRP, making them radon-prone areas according to international standards. The other study locations fall between the low to medium risk, except for areas with high soil permeability, which are not internationally classified as radon prone. A GRP map was created displaying radon-prone areas for the study location using Kriging/Cokriging, based on in situ and predicted measured values. The GRP map assists in human health risk assessment and risk reduction since it indicates the potential of the source of radon and can serve as a vital tool for radon combat planning.

Occurrence of uranopolycrase in pegmatite related to a Jurassic granite pluton in Cheongwon, South Korea: mineral chemistry and texture of a potential source of uranium and radon in a granite aquifer

Occurrence of uranopolycrase in pegmatite related to a Jurassic granite pluton in Cheongwon, South Korea: mineral chemistry and texture of a potential source of uranium and radon in a granite aquifer

Identifying the Presence of Natural Radionuclides in Ashlar Samples

Abstract Humans have always been exposed to different types of natural and cosmic radiation. At present we experience 83 % natural radiation, for example from granite marbles, building materials such as concrete, brick, granite, or drywall. However, although these are potential sources of radon, they are rarely the cause of a high level of pollution in a building.Ashlar is a material of volcanic origin comprising heterogeneous and solidified detrital pyroclastic materials such as rhyolite, sand, volcanic ash and pumice, among others. Chemically, ashlar is principally composed of elements such as sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron, aluminum, sulfur, and cobalt. In order to identify the presence of these elements in the ashlar, X-ray Fluorescence studies were carried out first, using modern XRD and XRF equipment, followed by quantitative analysis using a neutron activation technique, and finally, low-level gamma spectrometry to evaluate the presence of radioactive elements.

General model for estimation of indoor radon concentration dynamics.

A known relationship exists between high radon concentrations and lung cancer, and therefore, the indoor radon quantification is important, and it is beneficial to have a model to estimate indoor concentration. The work is focused on the development of an INDORAD (INDOor RAdon Dynamic) model for estimation of indoor radon dynamics, with time-dependent meteorological parameters and adjustable soil and building properties being considered. This model is based on a systemic approach, where the flows of material between compartments are considered, without a spatial resolution. This approach allowed to simplify the mathematical processing and enabled to consider together all known sources of indoor radon. The developed model was put in use in a laboratory building where soil constitutes major source of radon. The results (radon concentrations) from the model were compared to an existing data set from Saelices el Chico in a soil with high concentration of 226Ra. The outcome of the validation implies that INDORAD could predict radon concentrations satisfactorily. Suggestions for future updates of the model to improve indoor radon estimations are provided.

Sources of Radon and its Measurement Techniques in Underground Uranium Mines – An Overview

Purpose This study aims to identify the potential sources of radon exhalation and its measurement in underground uranium mines to control the radiation levels within safe limits and protect miners from radiation hazards. Methods An extensive literature review on radon exhalation in underground uranium mines from various sources such as uranium ore, backfill tailings and mine water has been carried out. The influence of different important factors, viz. ore grade, porosity, grain size and moisture content on radon exhalation has been discussed in depth. Different methods for the measurement of radon exhalation from various sources in mines have also been presented in this paper. Results The review of literature revealed that the radon exhalation rate in porous uranium bearing rocks is less affected by the ore grade than in non-porous rocks. The exhalation of radon from backfill tailings is quantitatively more significant than from the uranium ore itself due to higher bulk porosity and enhanced surface area. Thus, porosity is the dominant factor that affects the rate of radon exhalation from rock surfaces into mine openings. Practical implications The knowledge of the sources of radon and quantitative estimation of radon from various sources will be very much useful in the planning and designing of ventilation systems in underground uranium mines. The accurate measurement of radon exhalation in underground uranium mines can be made by choosing the optimum size of accumulation chamber and a suitable radon build-up period in the chamber. Originality/value The study portrays the important sources of radon and its measurement techniques in underground uranium mines based on an extensive literature review. The methods of measurement of radon exhalation from the ore body and backfill tailings in underground uranium mines, used by the authors of this paper, comparatively give more accurate results than previously used methods. Furthermore, the methods are more effective in terms of portability, cost and time for measuring the average radon exhalation across a large.

Sources of Radon and its Measurement Techniques in Underground Uranium Mines – An Overview

Purpose This study aims to identify the potential sources of radon exhalation and its measurement in underground uranium mines to control the radiation levels within safe limits and protect miners from radiation hazards. Methods An extensive literature review on radon exhalation in underground uranium mines from various sources such as uranium ore, backfill tailings and mine water has been carried out. The influence of different important factors, viz. ore grade, porosity, grain size and moisture content on radon exhalation has been discussed in depth. Different methods for the measurement of radon exhalation from various sources in mines have also been presented in this paper. Results The review of literature revealed that the radon exhalation rate in porous uranium bearing rocks is less affected by the ore grade than in non-porous rocks. The exhalation of radon from backfill tailings is quantitatively more significant than from the uranium ore itself due to higher bulk porosity and enhanced surface area. Thus, porosity is the dominant factor that affects the rate of radon exhalation from rock surfaces into mine openings. Practical implications The knowledge of the sources of radon and quantitative estimation of radon from various sources will be very much useful in the planning and designing of ventilation systems in underground uranium mines. The accurate measurement of radon exhalation in underground uranium mines can be made by choosing the optimum size of accumulation chamber and a suitable radon build-up period in the chamber. Originality/value The study portrays the important sources of radon and its measurement techniques in underground uranium mines based on an extensive literature review. The methods of measurement of radon exhalation from the ore body and backfill tailings in underground uranium mines, used by the authors of this paper, comparatively give more accurate results than previously used methods. Furthermore, the methods are more effective in terms of portability, cost and time for measuring the average radon exhalation across a large.

On global estimates for Poisson problems with critical singular potentials

Our aim in this paper is to obtain weighted L∞ estimates for Poisson problems involving Hardy–Leray operator −Δ+μ|x|2 or elliptic operators with critical singular gradients −Δu+τ+|x|2x⋅∇. Our method overcomes the difficulty from the singular potentials. Moreover, these estimates could be applied to obtain global W1,p estimates for distributional solution of Hardy problem with the Radon source.

Model of radon entry and accumulation in multi-flat energy-efficient buildings

Radon daughters in the atmosphere of dwellings, public buildings, and workplaces cause lung cancer. Radiation safety in a situation of indoor radon exposure is ensured by means of controlling natural radioactivity during the buildings construction and maintenance. In recent decades the energy saving has resulted in increase of radon concentration in new buildings comparing to conventional buildings. High-rise buildings where building materials are the main source of radon entry are of particular interest due to considerable influence of ventilation on the radon dynamic. To justify and optimize protection of the population against radon exposure in new energy-efficient multi-apartment buildings, a comprehensive understanding of the processes of radon transport and accumulation is required. Developed dynamic model of radon entry and accumulation in an energy-efficient multi-apartment building consists of building and room model, radon source model, ventilation model, and mass transport model. The dynamic model takes into account the basic physical properties of radon transport – diffusion and advection. Data of model experiments and observations of the radon accumulation in the real dwellings were considered to choose appropriate values of the model. Basing on simulation results, the possible range of radon concentrations under the expected concentrations of 226Ra in building materials was estimated. Simulation of indoor radon behavior approved that increased indoor radon exposure in multi-storey energy-efficient buildings can arise due to low active ventilation frequency and high 226Ra concentration.

Radon risk mapping: A new geostatistical method based on Lorenz Curve and Gini index

In confined spaces such as living environments and workplaces, the concentration levels of radon (Rn222) can be very high as compared to the external environment. Since Rn has been classified as the second leading cause of lung cancer after cigarette smoking, to apply efficient locally based risk reduction actions, dense maps of indoor radon concentration are needed. These maps would provide information about the areas prone to high radon concentrations and therefore more dangerous to human health. The soil is the primary source of the Rn, hence the risk assessment and reduction for the radon exposure cannot disregard the identification of the local geology. In this regard, we propose an innovative method, based on the Gini index computation, for the realization of interpolated maps (kriging) to describe the distribution of concentration of Rn. To validate the method, a tool that simulates sets of radon concentrations is used, whose variability is, to the first order, controlled by a priori imposed different lithologies. A systematic comparison is made between the results achieved by means of a classically used geostatistical method and the proposed Gini-based tool. We show how, by using this latter tool, the kriging solutions appear to be more robust to resolve the different geogenic radon sources independently from the number of the available measurements.

Preseismic atmospheric radon anomaly associated with 2018 Northern Osaka earthquake

Despite the challenges in identifying earthquake precursors in intraplate (inland) earthquakes, various hydrological and geochemical measurements have been conducted to establish a possible link to seismic activities. Anomalous increases in radon (222Rn) concentration in soil, groundwater, and atmosphere have been reported prior to large earthquakes. Although the radon concentration in the atmosphere is lower than that in groundwater and soils, a recent statistical analysis has suggested that the average atmospheric concentration over a relatively wide area reflects crustal deformation. However, no study has sought to determine the underlying physico-chemical relationships between crustal deformation and anomalous atmospheric radon concentrations. Here, we show a significant decrease in the atmospheric radon concentration temporally linked to the seismic quiescence before the 2018 Northern Osaka earthquake occurring at a hidden fault with complex rupture dynamics. During seismic quiescence, deep-seated sedimentary layers in Osaka Basin, which might be the main sources of radon, become less damaged and fractured. The reduction in damage leads to a decrease in radon exhalation to the atmosphere near the fault, causing the preseismic radon decrease in the atmosphere. Herein, we highlight the necessity of continuous monitoring of the atmospheric radon concentration, combined with statistical anomaly detection method, to evaluate future seismic risks.

Building management and effect evaluation of high radon in geothermal field

Objective To explore the source and control of radon in high radon houses in geothermal fields; Methods Radon concentration in indoor and soil was measured by ATD detector in winter and summer; radionuclides in building materials were measured by gamma-ray spectrometry; radionuclides dose rates of building materials were measured by 6150 A D/6H X-γ ray detector; and radon reduction technology was applied to one of the houses; Results The average radon concentrations in 32 rooms were (106.4 ± 63.7) Bq/m 3 (summer) and (421.3 ± 138.2) Bq/m 3 (winter), and the concentrations in 12.5% (summer) and 96.9% (winter) of the rooms exceed 150 Bq/m 3. The average radon concentration in soil around buildings was 12 890 Bq/m 3 ( n = 24), which is 1.7 times of the typical soil radon concentration in Beijing (7 600 Bq/m 3). After soil decompression, the radon concentration in the house could be reduced to less than 100 Bq/m 3. The radon reduction rates of active decompression and passive decompression were 94.6% and 71.4%, respectively. Conclusion The effect of soil decompression on reducing radon concentration in the bottom rooms is obvious. Attention should be paid to the radon in residential environment of geothermal field. 摘要： 目的 探讨地热田高氡房屋氡的来源与治理。 方法 α 径迹探测器 (ATD) 分冬夏两个季节测量室内和土壤中 的氡浓度。采用 γ 能谱法测量房屋主体建材放射性核素含量;采用 6150 A D/6H X-γ 剂量率仪测量房屋主体建材的外 照射剂量率；对其中一栋房屋实施土壤减压技术的降氡改造。 结果 夏冬季 32 个房间氡浓度均值分别为 (106.4 ± 63.7) Bq/m 3 和 (421.3 ± 138.2) Bq/m 3, 分别有 12.5% 和 96.9% 的房间超过 150 Bq/m 3。建筑物周围土壤氡浓度均值为 12890 Bq/m 3 (检测点 n = 24), 是北京市土壤氡浓度典型值 (7 600 Bq/m 3) 的 1.7 倍。实施土壤减压改造后冬夏季房屋中 氡浓度均可降至 < 100 Bq/m 3, 主动减压法降氡率为 94.6%, 被动减压法降氡率为 71.4%。 结论 土壤减压法对降低底 层房间氡浓度效果明显, 地热田居住环境中氡的问题应引起关注。

Mapping indoor radon hazard in Germany: The geogenic component.

Indoor radon is considered as an indoor air pollutant due to its carcinogenic effect. Since the main source of indoor radon is the ground beneath the house, we utilize the geogenic radon potential (GRP) and a geogenic radon hazard index (GRHI) for predicting the geogenic component of the indoor Rn hazard in Germany. For this purpose, we link indoor radon data (n=44,629) to maps of GRP and GRHI and fit logistic regression models to calculate the probabilities that indoor Rn exceeds thresholds of 100Bq/m3 and 300Bq/m3. The estimated probability was averaged for every municipality by considering only the estimates within the built-up area. Finally, the mean exceedance probability per municipality was coupled with the respective residential building stock for estimating the number of buildings with indoor Rn above 100Bq/m3 and 300Bq/m3 for each municipality. We found that (1) GRHI is a better predictor than GRP for indoor radon hazard in Germany, (2) the estimated number of buildings above 100Bq/m3 and 300Bq/m3 in Germany is ~2 million (11.6% of all residential buildings) and~350,000 (1.9%), respectively, (3) areas where 300Bq/m3 exceedance is greater than 10% comprise only 0.8% of the German building stock but 6.3% of buildings with indoor Rn exceeding 300Bq/m3, and (4) most urban areas and, hence, most buildings (77%) are located in low hazard regions. The implications for Rn protection are twofold: (1) the Rn priority area concept is cost-efficient in a sense that it allows to find the most buildings that exceed a threshold concentration with a given amount of resources, and (2) for an optimal reduction of lung cancer risk areas outside of Rn priority areas must be addressed since most hazardous indoor Rn concentrations occur in low to medium hazard areas.

Investigation of Radon Sources, Health Hazard and Risks assessment for children using analytical and geospatial techniques in District Bannu (Pakistan)

Purpose Radon (Rn) is a radioactive, odorless, and colorless gas which has a half-life of 3.83 days. One of the main sources of Rn which is directly consumed by the population is Groundwater (Tube well, Bore well, Hand pump). Rn gas is found naturally in rock, soil and water and can be considered as main health risk factor in terms of lung cancer, stomach diseases, leukemia and childhood cancer. The objective of this study was to determine the concentration of Rn in the drinking water sources, appraisal of health risk for children in District Bannu, Pakistan. Material and method Total of 98 drinking water samples were analyzed by using RAD-7 detector. The experimental data was statistically analyzed by using Pearson’s test. The experimental and epidemiological data of the study area are shown on map using ArcGIS version 10.5. Results The analytical results show that Rn in drinking water was found varying from 10.1 Bq/l to 53.1 Bq/l with the average highest and lowest depth of 60 ft to 550 ft respectively. Pearson’s test was used to show the concentration of Rn verses the depth of the water sources so +1 positive linear correlation was observed among the depth of water sources and the concentration of Rn. Out of 98 drinking water samples 40 sample were above the maximum contaminant level of 11.1 Bq/l (MCL) set by WHO, 2002. The effective doses (AED and DEing) for children ranges from 0.00001 to 3.792 mSv/y which exceeds the Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of Rn (0.1mSv/y) in 30 drinking water samples . On the basis of analytical results Rn high concentration areas are shown on the map using IDW model of interpolation and health risks were shown in areas where Rn content was above the maximum contaminant level. High correlations of diseases related to Rn were observed amongst the residence of the study area. Gastrointestinal diseases, brain tumor, lung cancer and kidney diseases were observed among the children of the study area. Conclusion From the overall analysis it was observed that high Rn concentration in drinking water may cause substantial health damage in children after long term exposure.

Prediction of Indoor Radon Concentration through the Exhalation from Korean Yellow Residual Soil, Hwangtoh as a Building Material

The radon gas from nature mainly considers a cause of radon problems, and it is closely affect human life cycle. Korean yellow residual soil, Hwangtoh, widely used as a building material, is considered to be one of major sources of indoor radon. However, there have, as yet, been no studies about radon from Hwangtoh in mass market brands. Here, we investigated the indoor radon concentrations and exhalation rates in four Hwangtohs from different brand names and regional features. The Closed Chamber Method (CCM) conducted by a Continuous Radon Monitor (CRM) has been used for the rates of radon exhalation. Based on equations of previous references, the indoor radon concentrations were deducted. As a result, the radon surface exhalation rates resulted in the 1.4208 to 3.0293 Bq·m2·h-1 range. Significant differences were found among Hwangtohs according to production regions. Materials with higher radon concentration required a longer time to reach a quasi-steady state in a given environment, in other words, the number of half-life cycles increased from a set starting point. The experimentally identified Hwangtohs demonstrated its safety for construction purposes. There exists, so far, a possibility to exert influence radon emanation due to unidentified factors. Therefore, it is necessary to corroborate with more research by increasing the number of Hwangtohs, considering the other references reported high radon exhalation rates. In addition, it is highly recommended that the radon exhalation rates should be measured for all building materials for preventing human health before the material usage.

Radon induced health effects: A survey report

Background/Objectives: The main objective of the present study is to find a relationship between radon exposure and the incidence of some malignant or non-malignant diseases. Methods: To find risks of occurrence of some diseases associated with radon exposure, this study reviewed published literature reporting the sources of radon, indoor and outdoor radon entry, factors influencing the radon concentrations, and induced health effects associated with radon and its decay products. Findings: Health hazards caused by radon (222Rn) exposure are mainly due to its decay radionuclides of 218Po, 214Po and 210Po. A high-level radon exposure is a risk factor for lung cancer. It is strongly associated with risks of some cancer in blood, skin, stomach and brain. The link of malignancies in the cardiovascular system, kidney and pancreas with radon exposures is controversial, but cannot be ruled out for the kidney. Radon has a significant effect on the reproductive system and growth of offspring at different gestation periods of women. Radon may also account for some other diseases, including COPD in lungs, diseases in esophageal, and rectum, or colorectal of the digestive system, cancers in the lip, oral cavity, and also pharynx and laryngeal cancers. Radon-induced diseases including cancers are susceptible to race, gender, or children, particularly cancers or diseases in lungs, stomach, brain, pancreas, female breast, and fetus. More systematic studies are required to find a correlation of radon exposure with malignant and non-malignant diseases. The vulnerable population for such exposure (miners and dwellers of colder regions) needs to be identified for protective measures. Of course, the contribution of Radon to the possible background radiation exposure, which may attribute to the hormetic effect, is almost outside the scope of the present study. Novelty/Applications: Present study provides some valuable information regarding evidence of some health effects caused by radon and its decay products. This can help researchers and the general population. Keywords: Radon; health effects; cancer; mortality; miners; general population

CFD based simulation of indoor radon distribution from the use of different brands of decorative glazed tiles made in China

ABSTRACT The radon exhalation rates of the surface of 10 different brands of glazed tiles made in China are measured and assessed. The experimental results reveal that the values of radon exhalation rate from the surface of glazed tiles are in the range of 0.36–2.52 Bq·m2 h−1, with a mean of 1.48 Bq·m2 h−1. These measurements obtained in this study are much lower than the typical radon exhalation rate international reference value of soil, and are also within the range of the reported literatures. Meanwhile, these data are taken as input parameters of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model for simulation comparative study. The different plane distribution of radon from the use of different brands of glazed tiles in the model residential room is simulated. The simulation results show that the distribution of radon concentration in different XY plane is un-even, and the values of radon concentrations in XY plane is decreasing with the increase of z height. Deducting the contribution of the worldwide typical outdoor radon concentration, the maximum mean radon concentration at z = 0.5 m height was found to be 6.03 Bq·m−3 in Brand ‘B.H’ which accounts for 13.40% of the worldwide geometric mean indoor radon concentration. Combined with the measurement and simulation results, it can be known that the use of glazed tiles is not the main source of indoor radon, but glazed tile with lower radon exhalation rate is still needed for health purpose.

Soil radon detection using active scintillation cell

ABSTRACT The paper herein is intended to present the registration efficiency of 300A alpha-scintillation active cell and its application in the field of soil radon detection. In this work, a radon chamber based on a natural radon source has been constructed. This chamber allows calibration of the active scintillation cell under flow-through condition. Radon source has been designed, constructed, and the radon concentration output has been measured. It has been observed that a steady radon concentration can be obtained inside the chamber after a period longer than 30 days. The steady radon concentration inside the chamber is equal to 123.58 Bq/m3. It is found that the registration efficiency and the sensitivity of the cell are equal to 0.69 and 1.243 CPM/pCi/l, respectively. After determining the calibration parameters of the cell, soil radon gas survey was carried out in the university city of Najran. It is found that the average radon activity concentration in the tested area is equal to 1332 ± 66 Bq/m3. Results of sensitivity and efficiency evaluation, along with radon measurements, are addressed and thoroughly discussed.