Environmental Ionizing Radiation Distribution Profile in Jos and Environs

Abstract

The environmental ionizing radiation distribution in Jos and environs were taken using a standard type gamma scout (GS.2 model, manufactured by GAMMA-SCOUT GmbH & Co. kG Germany) while the  location coordinates were taken  with the aid of a Garmin etrex H GPS receiver. The mean radiation levels were found to be 1.54+ 0.13mSv/yr, 2.18+ 0.20mSv/yr, 3.22+ 0.25mSv/yr, 1.61+ 0.14mSv/yr, 1.58+ 0.13mSv/yr, 1.72+ 0.19mSv/yr, 1.31+0.07mSv/yr, 2.47+ 0.15mSv/yr at Farin Gada, Fudawa, Odus, Jib Village, Jacopiang, Building Materials, Beach Road and Tudun Wada respectively.  Based on the results obtained, the mean radiation levels in all survey locations were above the acceptable limit of 1mSv/yr set up by the International Commission for Radiological Protection (ICRP).  These high values may be attributed to the mining activities which have been taking place in most of these areas over the years. Other factors may be due to industrialization, quarrying activities and waste disposal of some consumer products that contains radioactive contaminants. Since these readings were above the acceptable limits, it indicates that these areas may be hazardous to health.

Keywords :Gamma scout, ionizing radiation ,health and Jos