Radiation

All District Councils in Northern Ireland are members of a nation-wide monitoring network known as LARNET  (Local Authority Radiation Network).  The aim is to provide quality assured independent information on radiation matters at a local level.  As part of this a comprehensive monitoring and sampling programme for radiation has been set up.

Monitoring Programme

Background levels of gamma radioactivity from the ground have been measured throughout Northern Ireland on a 10 km. grid basis using radiation meters.  The background levels enable changes to be detected more easily in the event of any future radiation incidents.

In the event of any radiation incident affecting the United Kingdom, action will be taken by the Government under a National Response Plan.

Sampling Programm

A sampling programme of foodstuffs and environmental materials has been ongoing since 1984 to monitor background radiation levels.