Dose estimation and radon action level problems due to nanosize radon progeny aerosols in underground manganese ore mine

One of the essential parameters influencing of the dose conversion factor is the ratio of unattached short-lived radon progeny. This may differ from the value identified for indoor conditions when considering special workplaces such as mines. Inevitably, application of the dose conversion factors used in surface workplaces considerably reduces the reliability of dose estimation in the case of mines.This paper surveyed the concentration of radon and its short-lived radon progeny and identified the unattached fraction of short-lived radon progeny. As well equilibrium factor during the month of August was calculated simultaneously at two extraction faces in a manganese ore mine.During working hours the average radon concentrations were 220 Bq m−3 and 530 Bq m−3 at Faces 1 and 2; the average short-lived progeny concentration was 90 Bq m−3 and 190 Bq m−3, the average equilibrium factors were 0.46 and 0.36, and the average unattached fractions were 0.21 and 0.17, respectively. The calculated dose conversion factor was between 9 and 27 mSv WLM−1, but higher values could also be possible.

► The unattached fraction of radon progeny and its effect on dose conversion factor (DCF) were studied in a manganese mine.
► The unattached fraction was of a higher level in the manganese mine compared to a normal air-condition indoor room.
► Using the Porstendörfer formula the calculated DCF was at least three times higher than the indoor DCF by ICRP.
► The estimated lifetime dose for miners do not depart from the dose for non-underground workers.