Introduction to Environmental Surveillance and Dose Assessment

This is a three-day course that will run from 3 to 5 March 2009 at Chilton and from 6 to 8 October 2009
at Radiation and Environmental Monitoring Scotland in Glasgow.

It will provide an introduction to the theory and practice of environmental surveillance and dose assessment. It is aimed at non-specialist scientists; regulators and those involved administratively in monitoring for radioactivity in the environment. Suitable candidates are likely to have involvement with the nuclear and other industries that discharge radioactive wastes and therefore need to have some understanding of environmental surveillance and the interpretation of data.

No prior knowledge of environmental surveillance is assumed, although some topics will require the use of basic mathematics. The course will not be examinable.

Ideally participants will require a science-based degree or equivalent qualification.

Aims

The course will:

• Provide a basic understanding of radioactivity and its significance in the environment and foodstuffs.
• Present the national and international influences that promote monitoring and surveillance programmes.
• Explain the sources and movement of radioactivity through the environment.
• Define the process needed to establish a meaningful programme including a discussion of the role of habit surveys and modelling.
• Describe sampling methods, preparation and the proper handling of samples.
• Discuss the laboratory and counting facilities needed and suitable procedures necessary to maintain quality control and assurance.
• Examine the reporting and interpretation of monitoring data, dose assessments and associated uncertainties.

Booking/ administrative enquiries

To Radiation and Environmental Monitoring Scotland:
Telephone: +44 (0)141 4402201
Fax: +44(0)141 4400820
e-mail: hpascotland@hpa.org.uk

An application form for these courses, including the booking conditions, is available to be printed off, completed and returned with your payment. The course fee is £978 (Chilton) and £1040 (Glasgow).

Application form for the Introduction to Environmental Surveillance and Dose Assessment Courses 2009 (PDF, 170 KB)

Last reviewed: 27 April 2009