Pilot study of the application of Tellus airborne radiometric and soil geochemical data for radon mapping.

The scope for using Tellus Project airborne gamma-ray spectrometer and soil geochemical data to predict the probability of houses in Northern Ireland having high indoor radon concentrations is evaluated, in a pilot study in the southeast of the province, by comparing these data statistically with in-house radon measurements. There is generally good agreement between radon maps modelled from the airborne radiometric and soil geochemical data using multivariate linear regression analysis and conventional radon maps which depend solely on geological and indoor radon data. The radon maps based on the Tellus Project data identify some additional areas where the radon risk appears to be relatively high compared with the conventional radon maps. One of the ways of validating radon maps modelled on the Tellus Project data will be to carry out additional indoor measurements in these areas.

The development of the UK radon programme.

The natural radioactive gas, radon, is responsible for the largest component of the radiation dose received by the average UK citizen. The risks of exposure to radon have been demonstrated and quantified in epidemiological studies of those exposed at work and in the home. In the UK, measures are in place to identify and help control the exposures in those houses where levels are highest, to limit levels in new buildings and to control exposures in the workplace. This paper outlines the development of the programme, with special reference to the identification and remediation of homes with high radon levels.