Monitoring and analysis of radiation

Why, what and where monitor? The development of the radiation monitoring programme in Lancashire is discussed bearing these three questions in mind. Monitoring is particularly relevant in Lancashire as it has the Springfields fuel fabrication plant, the Capenhurst fuel enrichment plant, the Heysham nuclear power plant and the Sellafield reprocessing plant all in its area. The main objectives of the programme are to detect any change in normal background levels of radiation, to provide radiological information independent of government agencies, and to audit existing monitoring data. Sampling and analytical methods and quality assurance are discussed. The benefits of a local monitoring service are listed. (U.K.)