Measurements of radiation in the environment of the two nuclear power stations in the Netherlands

Measurements of radiation and contamination levels are carried out by the KEMA in the environment of the two nuclear power stations in the Netherlands. These measurements are not made for the purpose of controlling the discharge of radioactive effluents during normal operation of the plants, for this monitoring is being performed at the discharge point (ventilation stack or waste water discharge). Purposes of the measurements are: 1) use of the results to convince the public of the insignificance of the influence on the environment; 2) checking of pre-operational calculations; 3) rapid determination of doses and contamination levels after discharges exceeding the normal level. Measurements are made on exposure rate, aerosol concentration and contamination levels in grass, milk, surface water and biological material from this water. The measuring methods are described and some results are given. It can be concluded from these results that the operation of the power stations and the discharge of radioactive effluents do not lead to a measurable enhancement of the existing radiation and contamination levels