Estimates of dose from radon daughters in UK mines

Radon concentrations in many non-coal and private sector coal mines were measured with passive radon monitors in a cooperative exercise between the National Radiological Protection Board and the Mines Inspectorate of the Health and Safety Executive. Radon daughter concentrations were measured in deep coal mines by British Coal. The results presented show that, in the mines surveyed, statutory regulations require supervision or control of doses in about one-third of the non-coal mines and almost one-tenth of the private sector coal mines and in virtually no deep coal mines. Average annual doses in the three groups of mines are estimated at 14 mSv, 5 mSv and 0.95 mSv respectively; the average for all UK miners is 1.3 mSv. Progress with the supervision and control of doses is described, and information presented on large reductions in concentrations achieved by the straightforward application of good ventilation principles. (Author)