This document describes spot measurement methods for determining the activity concentration of short-lived radon-222 decay products in the air and for calculating the potential alpha energy concentration.

This document gives indications for performing a spot measurement of the potential alpha energy concentration, after sampling at a given place for several minutes, and the conditions of use for the measuring devices.

The measurement method described is applicable for a rapid assessment of the potential alpha energy concentration. The result obtained cannot be extrapolated to an annual estimate potential alpha energy concentration of short-lived radon-222 decay products. Thus, this type of measurement is not applicable for the assessment of annual exposure or for determining whether or not to mitigate citizen exposures to radon or radon decay products.

This measurement method is applicable to air samples with potential alpha energy concentration greater than 5 nJ/m³.

NOTE This document does not address the potential contribution of radon-220 decay products.