The Environmental Radioactivity Laboratory of the University of A Coruña (UDC) has received accreditation according to the UNE-EN ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standard for radon gas measurement using trace detectors. This recognition, led by CITIC researcher José Luis Calvo Rolle, guarantees the quality, traceability, and reliability of the laboratory's measurements, strengthening its capacity to provide services to companies, institutions, and individuals.
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can accumulate indoors, posing a health risk. Its measurement is crucial in Galicia, where a significant portion of the territory has high potential exposure. The UDC laboratory's accreditation is essential for protecting public health and complying with current regulations.
José Luis Calvo Rolle explained that the accreditation recognizes the laboratory's technical competence "to perform the measurements included in its scope, using validated procedures, qualified personnel, and adequately controlled equipment." This also enhances the UDC's capability to conduct radon measurements in homes and workplaces.
The laboratory, based at the CIS Tecnoloxía e Deseño in Ferrol, offers a comprehensive service including detector placement and collection, processing, results analysis, and report generation, as well as advice on mitigation measures. Since 2012, it has collaborated with the UDC's Occupational Risk Prevention Service and also serves companies and individuals.
According to the Nuclear Safety Council, Galicia exhibits high radon exposure due to geological, construction, and ventilation factors. Measurements are essential to identify risks and implement corrective measures, strengthening the scientific and technical capacity available in the region.
The UDC's Environmental Radioactivity Laboratory, established in 1997, is part of the Sampling Station Network of the Environmental Radiological Surveillance Network, contributing to radioactivity monitoring in Galicia and participating in the detection of radionuclides associated with international events like Fukushima.
