Submitted by Mrs S A Liddle, The Society for Radiological Protection Commenting on behalf of the organisation
To: ICRP
7th June 2012
Dear Sirs
Ref: Draft ICRP report "Radiological Protection against Radon Exposure"
We welcome the guidance on radiological protection against radon exposure. However we do have some concerns regarding the proposals:
We believe that the document publication is a little premature as we cannot comment on the suitability of the reference level 300Bq.m-3 until the new radon dose coefficients are published and we understand how this equates to dose.
The document is proposing the use of different doses per unit intake for workers and the public, we would prefer a simpler method of only using a single value.
The recommendations appear to conflict with other publications such as the Basic Safety Standards (IAEA and EU). ICRP is advocating a reference dose level of 10mSv, but until the dose per unit intake is known we do not know how this equates to an indoor radon level for a typical period of occupancy.
The IAEA approach to radon suggests a framework of dose limit, suggested concentrations and understanding the parent daughter ratio. The IAEA approach is preferred.
Regards,
Yours faithfully
Sheila Liddle
Secretary for SRP Legislation and Standards Topic group