The control of indoor radiation exposure

Surveys of natural radiation indoors permit improved estimates to be made of exposures nationally and of regional variations. In the UK, there are clear indications that individual doses from radon decay products can be more than two orders of magnitude above the national average. A reliable risk factor for lung cancer allows the risks to individuals to be determined, and some members of the public are seen to be exposed to relatively high risks. The feasibility of reducing such risks requires a knowledge of the costs and effectiveness of remedial and preventive measures. There are also social and administrative considerations. The form of standards and the means of implementating them require careful consideration. A systematic approach to these issues is discussed in this paper.