Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
11:19
Measuring Carbon-based Contaminant Mineralization Using Combined CO2 Flux and Radiocarbon Analyses
Published on: October 21, 2016
12.4K
RADON BASELINE MONITORING AROUND A POTENTIAL SHALE GAS DEVELOPMENT SITE IN YORKSHIRE, ENGLAND
Z Daraktchieva1, J M Wasikiewicz1, C B Howarth1
1Public Health England, CRCE, Chilton, Didcot, Oxon OX11 0RQ, UK.
Radiation Protection Dosimetry
|October 6, 2017
Summary
Environmental monitoring in the Vale of Pickering, a potential shale gas extraction site, found indoor radon levels aligned with predictions. Outdoor radon concentrations were slightly elevated but near detection limits.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Geology
- Public Health
Background:
- The Vale of Pickering is a potential site for shale gas extraction.
- Environmental baseline monitoring is crucial near such sites.
- Public Health England and the British Geological Survey are collaborating on this monitoring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct environmental baseline monitoring near a potential shale gas extraction site.
- To analyze indoor and outdoor radon concentrations.
- To compare monitoring results with radon potential maps.
Main Methods:
- Environmental baseline monitoring was conducted over 6 months.
- Indoor and outdoor air radon concentrations were measured.
- Results were analyzed for distribution and compared to predicted levels.
Main Results:
- Indoor radon levels followed a log-normal distribution.
- The number of homes exceeding the Action Level matched predictions from radon potential maps.
- Outdoor radon concentrations were slightly higher than previous measurements but near the detection limit.
Conclusions:
- Radon potential maps accurately predicted indoor radon levels in the study area.
- Baseline radon levels in the Vale of Pickering are understood.
- Further monitoring may be necessary to assess any impacts of potential shale gas extraction.
