Background Terrestrial Radiation Exposure Level Of Cross River University Of Technology (Crutech), Calabar Nigeria

Ushie P.O, Pekene D.B, Egeshi C.M, Ohakwere-Eze M.C

Background terrestrial radiation survey of Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH), Calabar was carried out. The study area was divided into twelve (12) locations and investigated. An in situ measurement approach was adopted using a SOEKS ecotester Geiger counter + food nitrate tester. Three (3) reading were taken in each of the location in survey and then an average computed. The outdoor annual exposure dose rate (OAEDR) of each location was also calculated. The measured average background radiation for all the location was (0.07±0.02)µSv/hr while the average OAEDR was found to be (0.13±0.02)mSv/yr. These values fall within the safe radiation limit of 0.13µSv/hr and 1.0 mSv/yr recommended by UNSCEAR (1998). However, results obtained do not indicate any immediate health side effects on the staff and students and the host communities.