Overview
EN ISO 18589-2:2024 - Measurement of radioactivity in the environment - Soil - Part 2 provides guidance for planning, sampling and pre-treatment of soil samples for radionuclide activity measurements. Adopted by CEN from ISO 18589-2:2022, this standard sets out general requirements for the selection of a sampling strategy, development of a sampling plan, field sampling methods, sample identification/packaging, transport/storage and laboratory pre-treatment. It is intended for soils and related granular mineral materials (including NORM/TENORM-containing materials, sludge, sediment, construction debris and various solid wastes).
Key topics and technical requirements
- Planning and initial investigation: desk study and area reconnaissance to define objectives and radiological characterization needs.
- Selection of sampling strategy: guidance on choosing probabilistic or orientated strategies based on study objectives and site conditions.
- Sampling plan: selection and identification of sampling areas, sampling units and points; representative sampling and decision criteria.
- Field sampling methods and equipment: general methods for surface sampling and soil profiles, plus equipment selection and sample handling.
- Sampling depth and profile sampling: choosing depths consistent with measurement objectives (surface activity vs. integrated profile).
- Sample handling: preparation of sorted samples, identification, documentation (sample sheets), packaging, transport and storage to preserve sample integrity.
- Pre‑treatment in the laboratory: recommended procedures and equipment for preparing samples for activity measurement (e.g., drying, homogenization, sieving), tailored to radionuclide analysis.
- Determination of deposited activity: approaches using surface activity data or integration of profile data.
- Record keeping: mandatory information to record; informative annexes provide diagrams and example sampling plans and records.
- Conformity with quality standards: general requirements are based on ISO 11074 and ISO/IEC 17025 principles for sampling and laboratory competence.
Applications
- Environmental radiological monitoring and baseline surveys
- Site characterization after radiological incidents or releases
- Assessment and management of NORM/TENORM in mining, coal combustion residues, phosphate fertilizer production and related industries
- Remediation planning, validation and post-remediation monitoring
- Waste characterization (sludge, sediment, construction debris, solid waste) for regulatory compliance and disposal decisions
- Research studies on soil radioactivity and radionuclide migration
Who should use this standard
- Environmental and radiological protection authorities
- Accredited testing laboratories and field sampling teams (ISO/IEC 17025 compliance)
- Consultants and engineers in mining, waste management and remediation
- Researchers conducting soil radioactivity studies
- Organizations managing NORM/TENORM materials
Related standards
- ISO 18589 series (other parts covering measurement techniques)
- ISO 11074 (soil quality - sampling principles)
- ISO/IEC 17025 (laboratory competence and quality)
Keywords: EN ISO 18589-2:2024, measurement of radioactivity in the environment, soil sampling, sampling strategy, pre-treatment, radionuclides, NORM, TENORM, ISO/IEC 17025.