Radiation
1. Natural radiation has always been present in
the earth, our food and water and the air we breathe. It is
estimated that approximately 86% of all human exposure to radiation
is attributable to natural sources, almost 14% to medical sources
such as X-rays and cancer treatment, and less than 1% to other
man-made exposures such as weapons testing, fall-out from nuclear
accidents, discharges from the nuclear industry, and occupational
exposures.
2. The accident at the
Chernobyl nuclear power plant in the Ukraine which occurred in 1986
led to public concern about levels of radiation. In response to
this, in 1988 the Radioactive Incident Monitoring Network (RIMNET)
was set up in order to monitor levels of gamma radiation at 46
locations throughout the country
3. Independently of RIMNET,
in Bedfordshire the local authorities set up a monitoring scheme
co-ordinated by Bedford Borough Council Emergency Planning
Department. The aim of the scheme is to provide baseline
information against which future trends could be compared in order
to provide early warning of any changes and potential problems. Two
monitoring sites are located within the Bedford Borough area, and
levels are consistently within the recommended range.
4. In recent years there has
been a great deal of concern about naturally occurring radiation
and its effects on human health. Most of this arises from Radon
gas. Radon originates from uranium present in earth materials and
can accumulate in confined spaces such as mines, ducting and
underfloor spaces. Long term exposure can result in an increased
risk of lung cancer. The National Radiological Protection Board
(NRPB) has established a safe limit for radon in homes, and offers
a testing service. Houses with elevated radon levels can be adapted
if necessary by installing underfloor ventilation and providing an
impervious membrane to the ground floor. More information is
available from the NRPB, Radon Survey, Chilton, Didcot, Oxon. OX11
ORQ. Their website address is:
http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20140714084352/h
ttp://www.hpa.org.uk/webw/HPAweb&Page&HPAwebContentAreaLanding/Page/1153822623782
