SIST EN ISO 18589-2:2024 PDF

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.