Distribution of radon gas in Romanian show caves and radiation safety

In many countries, caves can pose an economic interest for the authorities and stakeholders. The development of a show cave requires, apart from the conservation issues, to ensure the human safety by minimising the exposure to radon for cave personnel and visitors. Radon levels can vary widely from cave to cave, being directly correlated with different internal and external factors. It is therefore important to monitor radon levels before establishing the number of personnel required, so that they are not exposed to health-threatening levels of radiation. A long-term radon survey was carried out for this purpose in five show caves of Romania. The study pointed out the existence of high-radon potential areas inside the caves with concentrations reaching up to 4024 Bqm^-3, thus posing radiological hazard to cave personnel and researchers who develop activities underground. Further research focused on personal dosimetry will be necessary for an efficient management of occupational risk. (authors)