Overview
ISO 13164-1:2013 - Water quality - Radon-222 - Part 1: General principles provides general guidelines for collecting, handling and transporting water samples for measurement of the activity concentration of radon-222 (Rn-222). It sets the framework for two families of test methods:
- Direct measurement of the water sample without phase transfer (see ISO 13164‑2), and
- Indirect measurement involving transfer of radon from the aqueous phase to another phase (see ISO 13164‑3).
The standard applies to on‑site and laboratory testing and assigns responsibility to the testing laboratory to ensure method suitability for the water type under test.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Sampling, packaging and transport: Guidance on representative sampling of surface water, groundwater, springs and drinking water; preservation and handling to minimise radon loss or gain during transport.
- Test method categories: Overview of direct (in‑sample) and indirect (degassing, permeation, extraction) measurement approaches.
- Sample preparation techniques: Degassing methods, permeation and liquid extraction approaches for transferring radon to a measurable phase.
- Detection techniques referenced: Gamma‑ray spectrometry, ZnS(Ag) scintillation, air ionization, semiconductor (alpha) detectors, and liquid scintillation counting.
- Measurement methods: Descriptions of gamma‑spectrometry, emanometric (emanometry), liquid scintillation counting (LSC) and permeation-based methods.
- Calibration, QA/QC and verification: Requirements for instrument calibration, method verification, analyst competency, quality assurance and control to ensure reliable activity concentration results.
- Reporting: Guidance on expression of results and the content of the test report.
The standard includes definitions (units in Bq·L⁻¹), influence quantities, and informative annexes on radon behaviour in water and sample record forms.
Practical applications - who uses ISO 13164-1:2013
- Water testing laboratories and environmental radiochemistry labs establishing validated radon measurement procedures.
- Public water utilities and authorities monitoring drinking‑water for radiological safety and compliance (WHO guidance recommends controls if Rn > 100 Bq·L⁻¹).
- Environmental consultants and hydrogeologists assessing radon levels in groundwater and springs.
- Accreditation bodies and laboratory managers implementing ISO/IEC 17025 competence requirements for radionuclide testing.
Keywords: ISO 13164-1:2013, radon-222 measurement, water quality, radon in drinking water, sampling and transport, gamma spectrometry, emanometry, liquid scintillation.
Related standards
This part 1 document is the foundational reference for designing and controlling radon‑222 water monitoring programmes and for selecting appropriate measurement methods.
