Re: Radon Regulation for Caves

[xat@inel.gov (Alden Tschaeche)]

Mark Moleski wrote:
 They are concerned about the radon levels in the cave =
> during the construction phase (radon levels average 2 Working Levels).  =
> Since this cave is a wet cave (100% relative humidity), ventilation is =
> out of the question.  I am not should how to classify these workers  My =
> question is: what regulations do these workers fall under (MSHA, OSHA, =
> NRC) ?  Are they considered miners ?  Are they required to be monitored =

Since it is construction workers that you describe, I wouldn't be
concerned at all.  They will be in the mine only for a relatively short
time.  Bernie Cohen's data could be said to demonstrate that a little
radon is good for you.  Therefore, the construction workers should want
a little radon exposure above what they would otherwise get.  Gene
Sacomano in Grand Junction once told me that he had not seen any harmful
effects of cumulative radon exposures in miners below 70 WLM.  I cannot
believe your construction workers would get anywhere near that amount.

Al Tschaeche xat@inel.gov