Keeping underground sites safe: how our radon monitoring supports Partecipazioni Italia SPA

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas released from soil and rocks. While it tends to disperse in open air, in underground environments it can quickly accumulate, reaching concentration levels that pose serious health risks for workers. 

European and Italian regulations require strict monitoring of radon levels in underground workplaces, as prolonged exposure is linked to an increased risk of lung cancer.

Tackling the Challenge of complex site monitoring

Underground construction sites are among the most challenging work environments to control from an environmental standpoint. Their dynamic and constantly evolving nature makes risk management a delicate and highly technical task. Ventilation conditions can change rapidly as excavation progresses, directly affecting the dispersion of pollutants. Dust and hazardous substances generated by construction activities tend to accumulate easily, while high noise levels and limited accessibility further complicate monitoring and intervention operations.

Adding to this complexity is a critical factor: radon concentrations can fluctuate suddenly when different geological layers are crossed or fractures in the ground are encountered. This makes continuous and reliable monitoring essential, capable of promptly detecting any variation.

In such a complex scenario, traditional monitoring systems are no longer sufficient. What is required is a reliable solution specifically designed for underground environments, one that delivers accurate, real-time data and can immediately trigger safety measures when needed.

Delivering safety and efficiency: our advanced system 

To address this challenge, we delivered to Partecipazioni Italia SPA an environmental monitoring system designed to ensure maximum safety and operational continuity in tunnels under construction.

At the core of the system are monitoring units specifically engineered to meet the unique demands of underground environments. These are supported by advanced analytics software that processes data in real time and provides immediate decision support for on-site operations. The monitoring units simultaneously measure noise levels, the presence of hazardous pollutants, environmental conditions, and radon gas fluctuations—ensuring continuous and accurate insight into the surrounding environment. All data is transmitted continuously, delivering a reliable and up-to-date overview of site conditions at all times.

When any parameter exceeds predefined safety thresholds, the system automatically activates an on-site audio-visual alarm, enabling rapid response. This mechanism allows operators to promptly initiate evacuation procedures, adjust ventilation systems, or implement any other necessary measures to protect workers and minimize exposure risks.

Taking risk management to the next level 

Thanks to this solution, Partecipazioni Italia SPA is able to ensure a high level of safety for its workforce, operate in full compliance with current regulations, and manage construction activities more efficiently. The ability to respond promptly to critical situations also reduces downtime related to environmental emergencies, ensuring operational continuity and improved planning of on-site activities.

Continuous radon monitoring goes beyond regulatory compliance: it is a strategic choice that protects people, enhances the quality of the infrastructure, and reinforces a strong commitment to responsible and sustainable management of underground construction sites.