Measurement of Ambient Gamma Dose rate in air in Phayao province

Abstract

In this research, the objective was to compare the ambient gamma dose rate in Phayao province with the standard level of the office of atoms for peace (OAP). The data were collected from the radiation monitoring station at School of Science, University of Phayao between 28 March 2011 to 15 May 2015. The proportional counter type (BERHOLD) gamma radiation detector and the display monitor of Micro Gamma LB111 were used to collect and evaluate the ambient gamma dose rate on daily basic. During 2011 to 2015, the values of ambient gamma dose rate were ranged 0.172-0.052, 0.164-0.043, 0.154-0.122, 0.156-0.114, and 0.149-0.140 Sv/hr and with the average 0.146, 0.154, 0.145, 0.146 and 0.143 Sv/hr respectively. The average values of ambient gamma dose rate were in normal levels compared to the OAP standard of 0.040-0.150 Sv/hr exception in year 2012, which the mean value was slightly higher than the background radiation in the environment. Moreover, the average data were compared with other radiation monitoring stations using the same detection system in Ubonratchathani, Trat and Ranong. It was found that the average values were different from each other due to the geographical location. However, the averages of all stations gamma dose rates were acceptable and safe.