§ Mr. Chris SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what information is available about levels of radon gas in workplaces in radon-affected areas; what powers are available to local authorities to limit exposure to radon gas in the workplace; and what guidance has been issued.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythI have been asked to reply.
The Health and Safety Executive—HSE—commissions the National Radiological Protection Board—NRPB—to carry out research into the level of radon gas in workplaces in radon-affected areas, and reports of this work are produced. The NRPB also publish results of its own research.
HSE and local authority inspectors use their normal powers under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to ensure compliance with the Ionising Radiations Regulations 1985. These set limits on occupational exposure to radon gas and require exposures to be kept as low as reasonably practicable.
The HSE issued and widely circulated a free leaflet in July 1992 entitled "Radon in the Workplace", copies of which are available in the Library. Inspectors have fuller information which they issue to employers whose workplaces may be affected by radon.