Comprehensive Occupational Safety
Mining
Environmental Site Assessments
Radon in Underground Mines
Radon Gas Exposure Monitoring in Working Levels (WL):
Radon is a radioactive gas associated with uranium mining, but also with other metal nonmetal underground mines and tunneling operations. Radon (and progeny) are attached to fine dust particles in air that result from breaking uranium, thorium or radium-bearing rock with drilling, blasting and mucking operations. When dust-bearing radon progeny are inspired and deposited in the lungs of miners, the alpha (α) radioactive particles can harm sensitive lung tissue and may cause lung cancer. Radon gas exposures can be excessive in ends of drifts with dead air (not moving). For that reason, MSHA regulates radon gas in mines and requires initial and periodic testing to ensure that radon gas and gamma radiation exposures to miners are not excessive.
Our staff is experienced in performing evaluations for radon gas in working levels (WL) according to the MSHA regulation (41 CFR 50-204.36 - Radiation standards for mining). The air sampling and analysis is conducted on-site within the mine all within about one hour of time. Per the regulation, we also measure and evaluate thoron and gamma (γ) radiation as part of our service.
Contact us:
Toll Free: (888) 322-8287
or
Industrial Hygiene Resources
206 Murray Street
Boise, Idaho 83714
208-323-8287
Fax: 208-323-0783