title: Environmental radioactivity measurement intercomparisons in the UK.
abstract: The results of two recent (1989 and 1990) nationwide radioactivity-measurement intercomparisons covering a range of pure beta- and beta/gamma-emitting radionuclides are presented. Over fifty laboratories took part in the first exercise and, in general, the results were satisfactory although most laboratories confined themselves to gamma-ray measurements only. There were some areas of concern, notably decay-scheme data, statements of uncertainty and cascade-summing effects. A follow-up meeting was held to discuss these points with the participants. As a result of this meeting, a second exercise was held, covering a different range of nuclides at lower-activity levels and seeking to discover how participants had improved their procedures in the light of the results from the first exercise. The overall results of the two exercises are reviewed in the light of i) UK radioactivity-monitoring arrangements and ii) the National Measurement Accreditation Scheme (NAMAS).
authors.affiliation: Division of Radiation Science and Acoustics National Physical Laboratory, Teddington, Middlesex, UK.
authors.forename: S M
authors.initials: SM
authors.lastname: Jerome
mesh_terms: D004785:Environmental Pollutants / Q000032:analysis*; D007753:Laboratories / Q000592:standards*; D011868:Radioisotopes / Q000032:analysis*; D006113:United Kingdom
chemical_list: D004785:Environmental Pollutants; D011868:Radioisotopes