Assessing Background Ionizing Radiation at the Federal University of Technology Owerri Nigeria

Introduction

Understanding environmental radiation levels is crucial for ensuring safety in educational institutions. A recent study conducted at the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), Nigeria, measured background ionizing radiation using a calibrated digital Geiger counter to assess potential radiation exposure.

The findings provide valuable insights into radiation safety, especially for students and faculty members. Learn more about groundbreaking research in this field by visiting HSPIOA.

Key Findings of the Study

Researchers Eke BC and Emelue HU conducted radiation measurements across 30 outdoor and 30 indoor locations in FUTO.

Outdoor Radiation Levels

• Dose rate ranged from 0.07 µSv/hr to 0.23 µSv/hr
• The highest outdoor radiation was recorded at the university front gate (0.23 µSv/hr)
• The lowest was at the Old Registry (0.07 µSv/hr)
• Mean outdoor radiation level: 0.144 µSv/hr

Indoor Radiation Levels

• Dose rate ranged from 0.08 µSv/hr to 0.21 µSv/hr
• The School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology (SAAT) had the highest indoor radiation (0.21 µSv/hr)
• Mean indoor radiation level: 0.140 µSv/hr

Safety Assessment

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) recommend a standard background radiation level of 0.274 µSv/hr. The radiation levels in FUTO were well below this limit, indicating minimal health risks.

Health Implications of Ionizing Radiation

According to the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR), prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation can lead to:
Increased cancer risk (leukemia, lung, and skin cancer)
Genetic mutations
Organ damage and cataracts

However, the radiation levels recorded in this study remain within safe exposure limits for FUTO’s students and staff.

Scientific Significance and Future Research

This study provides baseline radiation data for FUTO, helping scientists monitor environmental radiation trends. Future research could focus on:

• Seasonal variations in radiation exposure
• Radiation levels in other Nigerian universities
• Long-term health effects of low-dose exposure

For an in-depth analysis, read the full study at

DOI: 10.29328/journal.ijpra.1001025.

Conclusion

The Federal University of Technology Owerri maintains safe radiation levels within internationally accepted limits. Regular monitoring is recommended to ensure continued safety.

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