CIRC 062: RADON

As part of ongoing discussions regarding Radon, it has been identified that there have been 24 Prisons where actionable levels have been identified in line with the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17) which are laws enforced by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to protect workers and the public from radiation.  

15 prisons (Askham Grange, Aylesbury, Bedford, Channings Wood, Downview, Ford, Hatfield, Hollesley Bay, Leyhill, Leicester, Lindholme, Stafford, Usk, Wealstun and Whatton) are now fully mitigated with post mitigation completed reflecting the efficacy of the action taken, these Prisons will continue to be monitored through Planned Maintenance activity.  9 Prisons (Dartmoor (mothballed), East Sutton Park, Exeter, Lincoln, Leeds, Maidstone, Portland, The Verne and Parc) are being managed under the IRR17 regulations, all of which currently are either awaiting permanent mitigations or have post mitigation monitoring in place.

Radon is a colourless, odourless radioactive gas. It is formed by the radioactive decay of small amounts of uranium that occur naturally in all rocks and soils.

The main danger from high radon exposure is the increased risk of lung cancer. For most people, radon is the single largest source of radiation exposure whether they are at home or at work.

As part of the ongoing work in relation to potential exposure to Radon gas, it is important that we maintain a register of any member who feels they have potentially been exposed to levels higher than the HSE deem to be acceptable.

Can any member who feels they may have been exposed please complete the attached survey via the link.

This information will be stored at Thompsons as a precautionary measure.

https://www.buildarray.com/u/fiZj

Please bring this circular to the attention of all members.

 

Yours sincerely

  

STEVE GILLAN
General Secretary