NORM: what is it and how to deal with it

NORM (Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material) is material found in the environment that contains radioactive elements of natural origin. But, where can it be found? And how do we deal with it?

NORM can come to the earth’s surface due to natural processes (radon gas moving through cracks in rocks or dissolving and being transported by groundwater flows), or due to human activities (mining, oil and gas extraction, etc.).

Although the concentration of NORM in most natural substances is low, higher concentrations may arise as a result of human activities.

An increase in exposure to ionizing radiation results in an increase in the risk of developing cancer.

Regarding the environment, radiation coming from NORM can contaminate ground and water for a long time.

This situation will produce disastrous effects on animals and plants that live in or around the contaminated areas.

More information about NORM and its characteristics can be found in the EDI Special Publication 2021. Read it for free here!