Radiation and other environmental hazards of mining: focus on Jos Plateau mining region

Abstract

Geological mapping and gamma radiation measurements were carried out in the northern part of the Jos Plateau Mining Region. The superficial deposits were also mapped. Photographic record of the minefields in the area was also made. The area is underlain by biotite granite, hornblende biotite granite and riebeckite granite of the Younger Granite suite, as well as porphyritic biotite granite, gneisses and migmatites of the Basement Complex. The superficial deposits include laterite, clay, alluvial sand, mine tailings and mine dumps. The minesfields are littered with hundreds of hectares of mine spoils, ponds and gullies of various sizes. The ecosystem in the area has been disturbed because of the destruction of the natural vegetation (and the dependent animal life), and distortion of the physical part of the ecosystem. Gamma radiation measurements in Barkin Ladi and Sabon Gidan Kanar revealed that the radiation levels of both the bedrock and the superficial deposits (2.0mSv/yr – 62.0mSv/yr) are above the 1mSv/yr maximum permissible exposure limit for the general public which was established by international bodies like the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP). Recommendations were made for close collaboration between the three tiers of government and the local people so as to ensure that all miners obey the Nigerian mining laws and regulations. Public awareness campaigns should be mounted to address the problem of exposure to high radiation levels. People should be evacuated from areas that cannot be cleaned up.