ABSTRACT

The gross alpha and beta radioactivity pollution of main water supplies in Dutsinma metropolis were measured using proportional gas counter. The results show that the gross alpha radioactivity in water samples is lower than the maximum contaminant level of 0.1Bq/L set by World Health Organization (WHO). The measured alpha activities have a minimum of 0.001±0.0.003 and the maximum of 0.146±0.034 Bq/L with mean of 0.029±0.002 Bq/L. The gross beta radioactivity in water samples is higher than the maximum contaminant level of 1.0 Bq/L set by World Health Organization (WHO). The beta activities were measured with minimum of 0.008±0.003 and of maximum of 4.917±0.090Bq/L with mean of 1.315±0.110 Bq/L. Due to the high results obtained from the gross beta measurement, there is need for further screening for radioactivity from the water sources especially the underground water supplies because continues drinking may poses health risk to the growing populace.

Keywords: Water; Radioactivity pollution; Proportional gas counter.