Large area beta/gamma probes for the detection of particulate radioactivity in the environment

A portable beta/gamma detector has been developed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF) for the statutory programme of regular monitoring of the beaches adjacent to nuclear sites for traces of particulate radioactivity. Extensive tidelines have to be scanned closely in all weathers using radiation detectors. The particular requirements for an 'all-weather' monitoring instrument are described. Commercial probes proved to be too fragile and hence a lightweight, all-weather, prototype probe was developed; it is not, as yet, commercially available. (author)