https://doi.org/10.1140/epjp/s13360-026-07738-x
Regular Article
Risk assessment and management strategies for radon and thoron exposure in some healthcare environments in Kosovo
1
Faculty for Mathematics Engineering and Physics Engineering, Polytechnic University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania
2
Faculty of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo
3
Alma Mater Europaea College REZONANCA, Prishtina, Kosovo
a
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Received:
5
September
2025
Accepted:
22
April
2026
Published online:
4
May
2026
Abstract
Indoor exposure to radon (222Rn) and thoron (220Rn) in healthcare environments represents a potential radiological risk for both patients and staff. This study is the first systematic assessment of radon and thoron activity concentrations at the University Clinical Center of Kosovo (QKUK), the largest healthcare facility in the country. Measurements were performed during a 94-day monitoring campaign from early spring to early summer using passive CR-39 diffusion chamber detectors and active real-time monitors (RadonEye RD200). In addition, twin-chamber detectors were paced at selected locations to simultaneously evaluate radon and thoron contributions. Radon concentrations ranged from 24 to 360 Bq m−3 with an arithmetic mean of 72 Bq m−3, corresponding to estimated annual effective doses between 0.41 and 6.12 mSv y−1. Thoron concentrations varied from 5 to 45 Bq m−3, contributing up to 20% of the total alpha activity. Most measured values remained below international reference levels (100 Bq m−3 recommended by WHO and 300 Bq m−3 defined by the EU Basic Safety Standards), although localized hotspots were identified in basement technical rooms. Seasonal factors and post-war building renovations likely contributed to the observed moderate concentrations. The results highlight the importance of targeted mitigation strategies, particularly improved ventilation and continuous monitoring, to minimize exposure and ensure adequate radiation protection for healthcare workers and patients.
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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.
