| Title |
An Empirical Study on Radon Exposure Characteristics in Rural Elderly Households: Focusing on Seasonality and Time-Weighted Exposure Index |
| Authors |
김용균(Kim, Yong-Gyun) ; 김상범(Kim, Sang-Bum) |
| DOI |
https://doi.org/10.5659/JAIK.2025.41.9.275 |
| Keywords |
Rural Elderly Households; Indoor Radon Exposure; Seasonal Concentration Variation; Fixed Occupancy Period; Time-Weighted Exposure (TWE); Exposure Assessment for Vulnerable Groups |
| Abstract |
This study investigates the indoor radon exposure characteristics of elderly households residing in rural detached houses in Jeollabuk-do Province, Korea. Using high-resolution, hourly radon concentration data collected continuously over one year, the study examines seasonal variations, diurnal fluctuations, and the overlap between high-concentration periods and residents’ fixed occupancy hours. Given the limitations of average-based exposure assessments, this study introduces the Time-Weighted Exposure (TWE) index to quantify exposure sensitivity based on actual time-use patterns. The results show significant seasonal and temporal differences in radon levels. While average annual concentrations ranged widely across households, radon levels during winter nights?when occupancy is high and ventilation is minimized? frequently exceeded the WHO guideline of 100 Bq/m³. In some cases, winter TWE values were 1.5 to 2.5 times higher than the annual mean, indicating an intensified exposure risk not captured by static assessments. This study highlights the structural and behavioral interplay underlying radon accumulation in aging rural housing stock. It demonstrates that elderly residents are particularly vulnerable due to fixed daily routines, prolonged indoor stays, and limited ventilation practices?especially during winter. The application of TWE reveals exposure blind spots overlooked by conventional evaluations, offering a more precise tool for identifying high-risk conditions. The findings support the need for dynamic exposure assessment frameworks and time-sensitive mitigation strategies, such as seasonal ventilation controls and occupancy-based risk evaluations. This research contributes a policy-relevant model for improving radon risk management tailored to rural elderly populations. |