Population doses from terrestrial exposure in the vicinity of abandoned uranium mines in Serbia

A uranium mineralized area of Stara Planina Mt., Serbia, where uranium ore was exploited for seven years was characterized radiologically. Results were compared with those for an area of background radiation in the northern part of the mountain. The terrestrial gamma dose rate due to 238U, 232Th and 40K in the area affected by mining activities was twofold higher than that of background area. The radiological situation of the affected area is not of immediate concern, except one location with elevated external hazard index where remediative measures taking into account site-specific ecological characteristics should be planned and implemented.