External doses to the public from beta emitters in the aquatic environment near Springfields and Sellafield

Abstract

Describes the results of a study of the significance to the public of external exposure due to beta emitting radionuclides near British Nuclear Fuels plc's (BNFL's) plants at Springfields, Lancashire and Sellafield, Cumbria. Fishing gear is already monitored near these nuclear establishments, and the results are published. Exposures due to handling of fishing gear have been shown to be of minor significance in comparison with external doses due to gamma emitters adsorbed on sediments and/or internal exposures due to consumption of marine foods. The note describes the results of further studies of pathways of exposure to beta emitters; these studies have been carried out as part of regular reviews of exposure pathways of the public, but also because to two recent developments.