Radon exposure in the thermal spas of Lesvos Island-Greece

The aim of this work is to study the exposure due to radon to bathers and personnel in the spas of Lesvos Island under a specific use pattern. 222Rn concentrations in the supplying water were measured during a long time period. Variations in indoor 222Rn, attached and unattached progenies, and influence of the ambient atmosphere were thoroughly analysed during bath treatment for the purpose of investigating a consequent probable short-term health impact. Concentration peaks both for 222Rn and PAEC were found to appear during bathtubs filling. These peaks considered imposing an additional short-term radiation burden for spa users. The additional doses delivered to bathers during bath treatment were found to be very low and for personnel did not exceed the value of 5 mSv per year. (authors)