§ Mr. FraserTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what are the typical levels of radiation emitted from the reactors of British nuclear submarines.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonThe levels of radiation vary according to the power level at which the submarine is operating, its power history, and the location of the observer with respect to the reactor. Radiation shielding is provided to ensure that at all times the radiation exposure of the crew is as low as reasonably practicable and well below both statutory dose limits and voluntary MOD limits. Radiation levels outside the hull are very low and pose no risk to members of the public. Personnel are allowed to work inside the reactor compartment only when the reactor is shut down: entry and working practices are strictly controlled to ensure that doses to maintenance workers are in accordance with statutory and voluntary limits and as low as reasonably practicable.