Short communication: estimates of radiation dose to National Health Service workers in Northamptonshire from raised radon levels.
Extensive surveys of the radon levels in hospital premises in Northamptonshire have shown that raised radon levels are present, but are localized to areas as small as a single office. Around 9% of sites are above the workplace action limit, and 1% of sites are over 1000 Bq m-3. In addition, radon levels vary throughout the day, and are usually higher at night. Staff in these areas could receive significant doses, and staff working shifts or at night could be at greater risk. Attempts to estimate staff dose using two methods are reported. It is concluded that, even though only a sample of the radon hot-spots was chosen, the radiation dose received by these staff is greater than the occupational exposure of radiographers, radiologists and other health workers.
Denman
A R
AR
Medical Physics Department, Northampton General Hospital, UK.
Parkinson
S
S
D000395:Air Pollutants, Occupational / Q000032:analysis*; D000396:Air Pollutants, Radioactive / Q000032:analysis*; D004739:England; D006801:Humans; D008452:Maximum Allowable Concentration; D010564:Personnel, Hospital; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D011886:Radon / Q000032:analysis*
D000395:Air Pollutants, Occupational; D000396:Air Pollutants, Radioactive; D011886:Radon