Radiation

The Environmental Protection Team deals with queries regarding radiation in North Norfolk.

Work on radiation is categorised into:

• Gamma Radiation
• Non-Ionising (Electromagnetic) Radiation
• Radon Gas

Gamma Radiation

Gamma Radiation is a measurement of naturally occurring radiation background levels and is monitored by North Norfolk District Council on a routine basis, with results fed into a National Network. Should you require further information on monitoring results please contact us on 01263 516085. 

Non-Ionising Radiation

Non-Ionising Radiation is commonly associated with mobile phone masts.

NNDC does not currently carry out any monitoring for non-ionising radiation. We only provide information and redirect the public to Health Protection Agency (HPA).

Radon

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas which is formed when minute amount of uranium present in all rocks and soils decays: it is everywhere – but usually at levels that pose negligible risk. Radon gas is drawn into buildings mainly through cracks and gaps in the floor. In confined spaces such as homes, levels of radon gas can build up; it has no taste, smell or colour; in fact, special devices are needed to detect it.

Radon is commonly raised as a query through searches undertaken when a house is purchased; levels are measured in Becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m3) of air and the level of 200 Bq/m3 in domestic properties has been considered the level at which action should be taken to reduce radon concentrate. This is known as the Action Level.

The current Health Protection Agency (HPA) report indicates there are no areas of North Norfolk which are Radon Affected.

North Norfolk District Council does not carry out any monitoring for Radon; we rely on the information supplied to us by the HPA. The only way of determining whether any particular property is above the “Action Level” is to undertake a test. Homes that have particularly high levels of radon can undertake simple, effective measures to reduce levels.

To order a test kit please visit the HPA’s radon services site, http://ukradon.org/ where you will be able to order on line and pay by major credit or debit card for a radon risk report or radon measurement kit (two detectors) for your home. You can also phone 01235 822622 or make enquiries at radon@hpa.org.uk.

Further information can be obtained from the following web sites:

Health Protection Agency

Building Research Establishment

For further details please contact the Environmental Protection Team on 01263 516085 or e-mail ep@north-norfolk.gov.uk.