Radiological examination of natural radioactivity in building materials used in Quetta, Balochistan and associated health hazards

The distribution of radioactivity naturally occurs in our environment has a vital role in radiation hazards. Therefore, radioactive elements such as 40K, 226Ra and 232Th and associated health hazards were investigated in building materials using NaI (TI) detector. The maximum values of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K were found 162.11 ± 6.32, 111.59 ± 4.26, and 1227.82 ± 9.68 Bq kg−1, respectively in gravel and minimum values of these radioactive elements were found 6.52 ± 1.26, 2.19 ± 1.29 and 4.309 ± 0.89 Bq kg−1, respectively in Paster of paris. Approximately, 50%, 20% and 40% building materials have 226Ra, 232Th and 40K activity concentrations greater than recommended world average values of 50, 50 and 500 Bq kg−1, respectively. However, 95% of building materials have radium equivalent (Raeq), external (Hex) and Internal (Hin) hazards indices less than WHO recommended world average values. Pearson correlations show positive correlation among the radionuclides under investigations. Based on the results, the building materials whose activity concentration of 226Ra, 232Tha and 40K are higher need to be used carefully and in controlled ways.