Limitation of radioactivity concentrations in building materials based on a practical calculation model

Building materials with enhanced radioactivity concentrations, as may arise if certain products and residuals are used, can increase the level of indoor exposure. The relationship between the activity concentration and the corresponding annual effective dose equivalent is a function of many parameters. A sensitivity analysis with respect to various parameters suggests that limitation of the radium concentration in building material is a suitable method for dose reduction. A model, useful for practical radiation protection purposes, and using the concept of a so-called reference room, was applied in the evaluation of possible activity limits. (author)