https://doi.org/10.1140/epjp/s13360-026-07539-2
Regular Article
Assessment of indoor radon concentrations in Tirana’s schools and workplaces using passive techniques
Institute of Applied Nuclear, Physics, P.O Box 85, Street “Thoma Filipeu”, Qesarakë, Tirana, Albania
a
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Received:
21
August
2025
Accepted:
5
March
2026
Published online:
18
March
2026
Abstract
Radon monitoring in Albania has been focused on schools and workplaces, where radon is classified as an existing exposure risk. This study was conducted in Tirana, home to approximately one-third of Albania’s population. The geological profile of Tirana comprising recent volcanic rocks, granitic formations, and permeable soils near seismic zones contributes to increased indoor radon potential and, consequently, elevated health risks due to higher exposure levels. The survey included 80 schools and 70 workplaces, with measurements taken on first floors and basements. Passive radon detectors (CR-39) were deployed for three-month periods in two different periods, winter and spring. These measurements were conducted by using passive monitoring methods. In schools, detectors were primarily installed in classrooms, libraries, and gymnasiums; meanwhile, in workplaces, they were placed in offices, meeting rooms, and laboratories. In many cases, indoor radon concentrations exceeded the recommended reference level of 300 Bq/m3. Detected radon levels ranged from 24 to 1000 Bq/m3 in schools and from 22 to 405 Bq/m3 in workplaces. A descriptive analysis revealed a positively skewed and peaked distribution, indicating that the data follow a log-normal distribution. The findings highlight the need for immediate mitigation measures, such as improving ventilation systems and conducting regular monitoring. Continuous radon surveillance is recommended to maintain safe levels and minimize health risks. Additionally, increasing public awareness especially among vulnerable groups is essential to address the health hazards of radiation exposure to radon.
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© The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Società Italiana di Fisica and Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2026
Springer Nature or its licensor (e.g. a society or other partner) holds exclusive rights to this article under a publishing agreement with the author(s) or other rightsholder(s); author self-archiving of the accepted manuscript version of this article is solely governed by the terms of such publishing agreement and applicable law.
