Assessment of Radiological Emission Risks and Safety in Residential and Occupational Areas of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Gamma radiation and radon concentration measurements were taken across urban, suburban, and rural residential areas, as well as industrial zones and oil refineries. Industrial areas, particularly Onna and Qua Iboe, recorded the highest gamma radiation levels. Radon concentrations were elevated in industrial and suburban residential areas, with Eket exceeding public exposure limits, resulting in an annual effective dose of 1.45 mSv/year. Occupational environments had higher radiation levels than residential areas but remained within regulatory limits. Mean gamma radiation levels in residential areas ranged from 0.05 to 0.15 µSv/h, while occupational settings recorded 0.20–0.50 µSv/h.  ...