Abstract:
Objective To control the radiation pollution levels of gross α and gross β in the rivers, lakes, and drinking water in Beijing area through taking corresponding surveillance measures from 2011 to 2013 against Fukushima nuclear accident on March 11 of 2011, to ensure the level in drinking water within national limits, and to provide baseline data for possible future radioactive level changes in rivers and lakes.
Methods Samples of river and lake water and drinking water were collected as planned in dry season and wet season each year from 16 districts of Beijing according to the Standard Examination Methods for Drinking Water (GB/T 5750.13-2006) and the Standards for Drinking Water Quality (GB 5749-2006). Comparative measurement was applied to test and analyzed the gross α and β radioactive levels in the samples.
Results In the samples of river and lake water, the arithmetic average values for gross α and gross β were in the range of 0.06-0.15 Bq/L and 0.20-0.25 Bq/L respectively. In the samples of drinking water, the arithmetic average values for gross α and gross β were in the range of 0.09-0.11 Bq/L and 0.08-0.10 Bq/L respectively.
Conclusion From 2011 to 2013, the radioactive levels of river and lake water and drinking water in Beijing area, no matter in dry or wet period, are lower than the guideline values recommended by the national standard for drinking water.