5. Annual report of RADMIL 1989/90

RADMIL is a programme of radiation and radioactivity monitoring carried out by local councils throughout the county of Lanccashire in the UK. The programme of measurements relates to external exposure to gamma radiation at 79 sites throughout the county in addition to beaches, coastlines and intertidal areas and to radioactivity in coastal sediments. Measurements relating to internal contamination include monitoring of airborne particulate, milk, meat, fish and shellfish, fruit and vegetables, and radon concentrations. Detailed results for 1989/90 are presented. They demonstrate that radiation levels and radioactive contamination following the Chernobyl accident have continued the downward trend previously reported. The levels are well below Generalized Derived Limits. Nuclear discharges from various nuclear establishments in the area continue to be detectable but are below the relevant guidelines or limits for the radionuclides concerned. (UK)