Abstract

Radon 222 is a colorless and odorless radioactive element with a half-life of 3.83 days which is emitted by different sources such as igneous (granites) and sedimentary rocks. Humans are constantly exposed to radon 222 through inhalation of air and water drinking. In this study, based on previous studies, concentration of radon 222 in tap drinking water of Minab and Jask were compared. The concentration of radon 222 in tap drinking water of Minab was 870±251 Bq/m 3 (Minab5˚C) >464±210 Bq/m 3 (Minab15˚C)>198.8±61.39 Bq/m 3 (Jask 12˚C), respectively. Concentration of radon 222 in the tap drinking water of Minab at temperatures of 15 °C and 5°C was significantly more than the city of Jask at 12˚C (P value<0.001). The concentration mean of radon 222 at 5˚C and 15˚C in Minab, and Jask (12˚C) ratio to EPA standard limit was 7.9, 4.2 and 1.8 and relative to WHO guideline was 0.87, 0.46 and 0.19, respectively. The mean concentration of radon 222 in tap drinking water of Minab and Jask cites was much lower than EPA standard limit and guideline of WHO. Hence, health risks of radon 222 in tap drinking water does not threaten the inhabitants Minab and Jask cites. © 2016, International Journal of Pharmacy and Technology. All rights reserved.